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Q799: What are some tips that I should know before I do my higher level review? Exactly what is the senior rater looking for? I have all of the evidence all signed and documented so what more can I add to the conversation?
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A1: A Higher-Level Review is a new review of an issue(s) previously decided by VA based on the evidence of record at the time of the prior decision. The higher-level review, done on a VA Form 20-0996, is used when the original rater missed some evidence of record or failed to comply w/ VA law. For instance, did not provide duty to assist. You do not submit new evidence on a higher-level review. Based only on evidence of record. (DS) 12/13/21
A2: If I were you I'd comb over all your documents and make sure you flag the areas that you want the rater to see. They could miss important stuff. (BP) 12/13/21
A3: When you do the higher level review the most important part is to go over all the documents and make sure that the first rating official looked at them. Most of the time the first rating official will omit looking at all the evidence. I know from experience (GR) 12/29/21