VA ignored my claim entirely for kidney disease

The VA's failure to adjudicate your kidney disease claim constitutes a "deferred" or "inadvertently omitted" issue, which requires immediate corrective action on your part. Under 38 CFR 3.103(c)(2), the VA must issue a decision on *all* claims reasonably raised by the evidence, and a failure to do so is a clear duty to assist error. Your first actionable step is to file a **Higher-Level Review (HLR)** within one year of your decision notice, specifically requesting the reviewer address the unadjudicated claim for chronic kidney disease (likely rated under Diagnostic Codes 7501-7522 for renal dysfunction). Cite the fact that you submitted "tons of medical records" as evidence the claim was pending, and the VA's inaction violates its duty under *Morton v. West*, 12 Vet.App. 477 (1999), which holds the VA must consider all evidence of record. In your HLR, demand a de novo review and point out the omission; you can also request an informal conference to explain the error directly to the senior reviewer. Concurrently, consider filing a Notice of Disagreement (NOD) on the basis of an incomplete rating decision. Ensure your kidney disease evidence includes a current diagnosis, nexus linking it to service or your service-connected hypertension (as secondary under 38 CFR 3.310), and documentation of renal function (e.g., GFR, creatinine levels) to support a rating under the criteria in 38 CFR 4.115. If the HLR does not correct the error, your next step is a Board of Veterans' Appeal appeal, arguing the initial rating was not final because it failed to address all claims.

*This information is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal or medical advice; consult an accredited VA attorney or agent for guidance specific to your case.*