What Is Preparation for Decision
Preparation for Decision is a claim status that means the VA has finished gathering evidence and is actively reviewing your case before issuing a final rating decision. At this stage, your file is complete, all C&P exam results are in, and your case is in the VA rater's queue for evaluation.
The Timeline and Process
Once your claim enters Preparation for Decision status, you're typically 1 to 3 weeks away from a rating decision, though this varies by regional office workload. The VA rater reviews your entire file against the diagnostic codes in 38 CFR Part 4, the rating schedule used for all disability decisions. They examine:
- All medical evidence from your C&P exams and private treatment records
- Nexus letters or medical opinions connecting your condition to service
- Your service treatment records
- Any statements in support of your claim you submitted
- Prior rating decisions if this is a reconsideration or appeal
What Happens During This Phase
The rater assigns a percentage rating (0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 100%) based on how severely your condition impacts your ability to work and function. If you have multiple conditions, each gets its own rating, then the VA combines them using a formula that adjusts for the cumulative effect. The rater also determines your effective date, which determines when your payment begins.
This is not the time to submit new evidence unless it's truly exceptional. Standard new evidence should have been submitted during the Claim Development phase. If you do submit evidence during Preparation for Decision, the VA may restart the development process, pushing your decision further back.
What You Can Do Now
- Monitor your claim status: Check VA.gov regularly. You'll receive a notification when the decision is ready.
- Don't contact the VA: Routine inquiries during this phase don't speed up your decision and may cause delays if they create administrative questions.
- Prepare for the outcome: Review the rating schedule for your conditions. Understand what percentage rating means for your monthly payment amount.
- Plan your appeal strategy: If you anticipate a rating lower than you expected, have a VSO or VA-accredited representative ready to help file a higher-level review or appeal within one year of the rating decision.
Common Questions
- How long does Preparation for Decision usually last? Most cases resolve in 1 to 3 weeks, but during high-volume periods at regional offices, it can take 4 to 6 weeks. The VA publishes average processing times by regional office on VA.gov.
- What if I disagree with the decision once it comes? You have one year from the date of your rating decision to file a higher-level review (request a senior rater review it), submit a supplemental claim with new evidence, or appeal to the VA Board of Veterans' Appeals.
- Can I submit more evidence while my claim is in Preparation for Decision? Technically yes, but it will restart development and delay your decision. Only submit if you have critical new evidence (like a recent surgery or diagnosis directly related to your claim).
Related Concepts
- Rating Decision - the final determination and percentage rating assigned to your condition
- Claim Development - the phase before Preparation for Decision where the VA gathers medical records and schedules exams