Hello, Veterans!
If you’ve filed a VA disability claim, you know the process can feel like a marathon. You’ve navigated the paperwork, attended appointments, and now you find yourself at Step 6: Preparation for Decision. But what does that mean, and more importantly, how long will you be here?
This article will break down everything you need to know about Step 6 of the VA claim process, providing clarity on timelines and what’s happening behind the scenes.
What is Step 6: Preparation for Decision?
Step 6 means that the VA has all the necessary evidence to decide on your claim. A Rating Veteran Service Representative (RVSR) will now review your application, your service records, medical evidence, and C&P exam results to make a decision.
This is a critical phase. The RVSR is responsible for determining if you have a service-connected disability and, if so, assigning a disability rating. You can learn more about how these ratings are calculated and what they mean by using a VA Disability Calculator.
How Long Does Step 6 Usually Take?
While every claim is unique, the VA’s goal is to complete this step in 7 to 14 business days. However, several factors can influence this timeline:
- Complexity of Your Claim: A claim for a single condition is typically faster than a claim for multiple conditions, especially if they are complex (e.g., PTSD, TDIU).
- Evidence Provided: If your file is complete and well-organized, the RVSR can move more quickly. If they need to seek clarification or additional records, delays will occur.
- VA Workload: The infamous “national work queue” plays a significant role. If there is a high volume of claims, your file will simply have to wait its turn.
What Happens After Step 6?
Once the RVSR has made a ratings decision, your claim moves to Step 7: Pending Decision Notification. This is where the decision is documented, and a notification packet is prepared to be mailed to you.
After you receive your rating, you may want to understand the full scope of benefits you are now entitled to. For those with a high rating, our guide on The 100% VA Rating Advantage provides a comprehensive overview.
Can I Do Anything to Speed Up Step 6?
At this stage, your ability to influence the speed is limited since the claim is in the hands of the VA. The best thing you can do is ensure all your evidence was submitted correctly from the start.
While you wait, you can always check the status of your claim. For a detailed walkthrough on how to do that, visit our guide on How to Track Your VA Disability Claim.
We hope this guide has provided clarity on Step 6. Our mission is to empower you with the truth about the VA claims process. For an inspiring story, read about Ryan’s Path to 100% Permanent & Total disability.