Is Preparation for Notification a Good Sign? 5 FAQs  

Is preparation for notification a good sign? 

The preparation for notification step of your VA claim is nearly the end of the process, but does it mean you’ll receive an answer in your favor? Not exactly.  

While it’s a standard step of the VA claims process, it does mean you’re closer to receiving your final decision.  

This post will help dissect the preparation for notification stage, including why your VA claim may be stuck. Let’s get started!  

Summary of Key Points  

• The VA preparation for notification stage corresponds to the final stages of the VA claims process, which include preparing the decision letter and final review. This means you’ll likely receive a decision letter shortly. (Although, there’s always a chance your VA claim will be delayed.)  

• Your VA claim may get stuck in the preparation for notification stage for various reasons, including the VA being backlogged with other claims.  

• Ensuring your VA disability claim is complete, and you’ve included sufficient medical evidence will help keep your application on time.

What Does Preparation for Notification Mean?

During the VA preparation for notification step of the claims process, the VA prepares your decision packet, including details on the decision, disability rating, and any benefits.  

The VA preparation for notification step is the last step before the decision notification is sent. 

At this point, the VA has decided on your claim, but it will be reviewed by a Senior Veterans Service Representative (SVSR) before you receive your final decision.  

If the SVSR has a differing opinion of your VA claim, it may delay when you receive your decision packet.  

Is Preparation for Notification a Good Sign?

Yes! While every veteran who qualifies for VA disability will eventually reach the preparation for notification step of their claim, it also means the VA is closer to deciding on your claim.  

However, it’s important to understand that it doesn’t indicate whether the VA has decided in your favor. In addition, delays frequently occur after the VA has decided, resulting in a delay of notification.  

RELATED: Is Preparation for Decision a Good Sign? 

How Long Does Preparation for Notification Take?

There is no exact timeline for the preparation for notification stage since all claims are unique and vary in complexity. At this point, there isn’t much you can do to speed up the process.  

However, to ensure your VA claim is processed in a timely manner, complete your application thoroughly and provide solid medical evidence to help support your claim.  

Are you frustrated that your application seems stuck? Reasons why your VA claim is stuck in the preparation for notification stage include: 

• The VA is backed up with other disability claims  

• There’s a dispute on the final decision of your claim and VA representatives must communicate to agree on an outcome  

• The VA may need more information, including additional medical evidence or lay statements, to properly decide on your claim 

SEE ALSO: How Long Does Evidence Gathering Review and Decision Take?

Is Preparation for Notification Good or Bad?

If you’ve reached the preparation for notification stage, you’re closer to receiving a decision on your VA claim, which is always a good thing! 

However, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t inform you of the VA’s final decision on your claim. You’ll have to wait for your decision letter for that.  

Does Preparation for Notification Mean Denied?

No, VA preparation for notification doesn’t mean denied, and all veterans will have this status during their VA claim.  

You won’t know whether your VA claim is denied until you’ve received your decision letter. You can also check the status of your VA claim online.   

Step 1: VA Claim Received 

Step 2: Initial Review 

Step 3: Evidence Gathering 

Step 4: Evidence Review 

Step 5: Rating 

Step 6: Preparing Decision Letter 

Step 7: Final Review 

Step 8: VA Claim Decided 

SEE MORE: The 8-Step VA Claim Process with Timelines  

NEED MORE ASSISTANCE?

Most veterans are underrated for their disabilities and, therefore, not getting the compensation they’re due. At VA Claims Insider, we educate you on how to understand and take control of the claims process so you can get the rating and compensation you’re owed by law.  

Our process takes the guesswork out of filing a VA disability claim and supports you every step of the way in building a fully developed claim (FDC)—so you can increase your rating fast! If you’ve filed your VA disability claim and have been denied or have received a low rating—or you’re unsure how to get started—reach out to us!  

Take advantage of a FREE VA Claim Discovery Call. Learn what you’ve been missing—so you can FINALLY get the disability rating and compensation you deserve! 

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.