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Step 6 of a VA disability claim typically takes about 7 to 14 days; however, timelines can vary based on the details of your claim.
During this step, the VA prepares your decision letter and conducts a final review before issuing a decision.
In this post, we explain what happens during step 6, how long it typically takes, what can delay it, and what to expect next.
Summary of Key Points
- Step 6 of a VA claim is the preparing decision letter stage, where a preliminary rating decision is reviewed and finalized before being issued.
- Most claims normally remain in step 6 for 7–14 days, though timelines can vary based on claim complexity.
- After step 6, your claim moves to the final review, where a senior reviewer reviews your claim and decision letter.
Table of Contents
Step 6: Preparing Decision Letter
During step 6 of your VA claim, a Rating Veterans Service Representative (RVSR) prepares a preliminary decision on service connection, disability ratings, monthly payment amounts, and effective dates.
That decision is then reviewed by a senior VA official to confirm that it complies with VA regulations and rating criteria.
If an issue is identified, the claim may be sent back for correction or additional review, which can extend the timeline.
>> View Our Complete Guide on VA Claim Timelines
How Long Does Step 6 of a VA Claim Take?
Step 6 of a VA claim generally takes 7-14 days, but there is no guaranteed timeframe. Delays during step 6 of a VA claim are less common, but they can happen.
Your VA claim timeline depends on factors such as:
- The type of VA claim you filed
- The number of conditions you claimed and how complex they are
- How long it takes the VA to collect the evidence needed to decide your claim
Can I Speed up Step 6?
In most cases, no. Step 6 is an internal VA review stage, and there’s little you can do to speed it up.
At this point, the evidence has already been reviewed, and a preliminary decision has been made. The VA is focused on quality checks and final approval, not development or evidence gathering.
To avoid delays during step 6:
- Avoid submitting new evidence unless it’s critical
- Monitor your claim status for updates
- Make sure your contact information is current
What to Expect After Step 6
After your VA claim passes step 6, it moves to final review, where a senior reviewer conducts a final review of your claim and decision letter.
Once your claim is decided, you can view and download your decision letter through the VA claim status tool.
A paper copy is also mailed to you and typically arrives within 10 business days, though delivery times may vary.
Related Post: The 4 Best Ways to Check the Status of a VA Claim
Conclusion
Step 6 is one of the final checkpoints in the VA claims process. It usually moves within one to two weeks, but delays can occur if additional review or corrections are needed.
If your claim remains in step 6 longer than expected, it doesn’t necessarily mean there is a problem; it often means the VA is finalizing details before issuing your decision.
FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my VA claim be in step 6?
Most claims typically remain in step 6 for about 1 to 2 weeks, though some may take longer depending on complexity and internal review requirements.
What if my VA claim is stuck on step 6?
If your claim stays in step 6 longer than expected, it’s usually due to internal quality checks or corrections. In some cases, the VA may return the claim to an earlier step to address an issue before final approval.
What VA claim step takes the longest?
For many claims, step 3 takes the longest. This is when the VA collects records, schedules C&P exams, and reviews medical evidence.
Can you add evidence in step 6 of a VA claim?
Yes, but submitting new evidence during step 6 will send your claim back to step 3 and may delay a decision.
Does step 6 mean my VA claim is approved?
Not necessarily. Step 6 means your claim is under final review, but approval or denial isn’t confirmed until the VA issues your official decision letter.
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Content Reviewed By
Quality Assurance Team
The Quality Assurance (QA) team at VA Claims Insider has extensive experience researching, fact-checking, and ensuring accuracy in all produced content. The QA team consists of individuals with specialized knowledge in the VA disability claims adjudication processes, laws and regulations, and they understand the needs of our target audience. Any changes or suggestions the QA team makes are thoroughly reviewed and incorporated into the content by our writers and creators.
About the Author
Kelly Olone
Kelly Olone is a military spouse who earned her degree in Psychology from Florida International University. After working in the non-profit sector for several years, she turned to her passion for writing. She aims to contribute to a better understanding of the valuable benefits that veterans deserve. As a mom, Kelly navigates the delicate balance between deadlines and bedtime stories with finesse.
