WASHINGTON — The Department of Veterans Affairs’ Board of Veterans’ Appeals appointed 20 new Veterans Law Judges to deliver more Veterans appeals decisions — bringing the total to 113 VLJs. 

Most of the new VLJs will arrive prior to the end of fiscal year 2021, with additional judges to be appointed in fiscal year 2022.

They will further VA’s effort to deliver enhanced benefits and services to Veterans.

“Veterans Law Judges are a key part of ensuring Veterans receive the benefits and services they have earned and deserve” said VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “Once I swear in the new judges, this puts in place added resources to reduce the appeals inventory.”

The judges will receive extensive training from seasoned mentor judges to prepare them for their new responsibilities and will be supported by a cadre of attorney-advisors and professional staff as they adjudicate appeals.

To find the status of a claim, appeal, or decision review sign in here. Learn more about opting into virtual hearings. Visit VA’s Board of Veterans’ Appeals for additional information.

Reporters and media outlets with questions or comments should contact the Office of Media Relations at vapublicaffairs@va.gov

Veterans with questions about their health care and benefits (including GI Bill). Questions, updates and documents can be submitted online.

Contact us online through Ask VA

Veterans can also use our chatbot to get information about VA benefits and services. The chatbot won’t connect you with a person, but it can show you where to go on VA.gov to find answers to some common questions.

Learn about our chatbot and ask a question

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