What Is Informal Conference
An informal conference is a phone call between you and a senior reviewer at the VA during a Higher Level Review where you can discuss errors in your original claim decision. Unlike a formal hearing, there's no recorded transcript, no representative required, and no strict procedural rules. It's a chance to talk directly with someone who has authority to overturn the initial rating decision.
When You Get One
You don't automatically receive an informal conference. You must request one when you file your Higher Level Review. The VA processes roughly 90,000 Higher Level Reviews annually, and informal conferences are used in a significant portion of appealed claims. If you request one and the reviewer determines it would assist in the case, they'll schedule the call within 120 days of your request.
The Decision Review Officer conducting the review decides whether to hold an informal conference. They may decline if they believe the record already contains sufficient evidence to make a decision, though many DROs use these calls as a standard part of the review process.
What Happens During the Call
- You explain errors: Point out specific mistakes in the original rating decision, such as misinterpretation of your C&P exam results, missing medical records, or incorrect application of VA rating criteria.
- You provide context: The reviewer may ask about your claimed condition, how it affects your daily life, or clarifications about treatment you've received since the original examination.
- No formal record: The VA takes notes but doesn't create a transcript. You can have a VSO representative on the call with you, which many veterans find helpful for discussing technical rating issues.
- No new evidence required: You're working with the existing file. If you need to introduce new medical evidence (like an updated nexus letter), that requires submitting it separately before the call.
Timing and Strategy
Request the informal conference when you file your Higher Level Review form (VA Form 20-0996). Prepare for the call by reviewing your original decision letter and identifying the specific factual or legal errors the rater made. If your rating denial hinged on whether your condition was service-connected, bring a copy of any nexus letter you have. If it was about severity, know the VA rating schedule percentages for your condition.
The DRO has the authority to grant any rating from 0% to 100% based on your evidence and the rating schedule. This means they can overturn the decision entirely, increase your rating, or maintain it. According to VA data, roughly 20% of Higher Level Reviews result in any grant of benefits.
VSO Representation
You can have a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) represent you on the call. Many veterans find this valuable because VSOs understand the rating schedule and can frame your condition's severity in terms the VA uses. VSOs are free through organizations like the American Legion, VFW, or DAV.
Common Questions
- Can I record the call? You should not record without explicit VA permission. The call is between you, the reviewer, and any authorized representative. Focus on taking notes instead.
- What if I disagree with the DRO after the informal conference? You can file an appeal with the Board of Veterans' Appeals (now called the Veterans Appeals Board). The informal conference is one step in a longer process.
- Should I always request an informal conference? Request one if you believe the original rater made a factual error or misunderstood your evidence. Skip it if you're primarily submitting new medical evidence that wasn't in the original file.
Related Concepts
- Higher Level Review - the review process that includes the informal conference option
- Decision Review Officer - the person conducting your review and deciding your case