VA Backlog & Appeal Delays
For most people, the thought of filing for VA benefits should not be challenging. You served the country, you need medical care, and you expect to have the best access to it. When that does not happen, it becomes frustrating.
Veterans are facing long delays and appeal backlogs, and that is impacting the quality of care and well-being. If you are facing such complexities, hiring an attorney to advocate for you is critical. Al Giordano, The VA Claims Lawyer, works with vets who need answers. Put your trust in Lawyer Al Giordano and get answers about your VA benefits.
VA Backlogs
Reports from the Department of Veterans Affairs are being straightforward about what is happening. According to recent updates from the VA in May of 2025, the VA is backed up on more than 198,000 claims for disability compensation benefits. While there is an indication that the backlog is improving in recent weeks, the concern still is that thousands of veterans are awaiting the financial help they were promised when they signed up to serve the country.
Why Do VA Backlogs Happen?
In a digital age, it may seem strange that a simple claim becomes so backed up that it takes months to receive information. Yet, there are several key reasons why Vets continue to wait for the disability claims they need.
High volume. There are a large number of disability claims filed each year. That is due, in part, to Veterans aging and needing more care. With consistently high volume, it makes sense that delays could occur.
Applications are incomplete. It is very common for VA disability benefits applications to have missing, critical information. That slows down an initial claim, but it is not just a personal delay. Rather, that time spent on one application with incorrect information means time is not being spent on others with valid information. Incomplete information delays everyone.
Complex cases. Some of the most common VA disability claim delays occur when there are multiple conditions or when a secondary service is needed. This means there is more time invested in the claims process through verification processes. This makes the entire process take longer.
Appeals are common. When information is missing or data is not clear, and the claim is rejected, Vets have the right to appeal the process. Appeals can also create delays in the system.
Tech issues. It is not uncommon for technology to slow things down.
No matter why the VA backlog is happening, what is clear is that it is putting your health and quality of life at risk. That is both unacceptable and dangerous. The longer you have to wait, the more at risk you are for complications.
What to Do If Your VA Claim Is Stuck in the Backlog
Many people simply cannot just wait for the system to navigate through the backlog to provide them with access to the care they need. If you are facing delays and they are not improving, do not just wait.
Ensure Your Claim Is Complete
Before doing anything else, ensure that you have a fully developed claim, meaning that all evidence is provided upfront. This can reduce delays. Be sure that your medical evidence is more than enough, and includes both VA and private providers who have worked with you. Ensure there is a clear link between your condition and your military service.
Contact an Attorney to Guide You in Getting VA Benefits
Your VA health care is your right. If you are not receiving the necessary support you need, it is time to speak to a legal professional. It is critical to work with an attorney to expedite your claim and make sure that your claim has everything necessary to move it forward. Your attorney can help you in numerous ways:
Determine why your claim is not moving through the system. This can give you peace of mind to know that your claim is accurate and valid. It helps to know that you submitted your claim properly.
Gather evidence to determine what may be holding it back. This may include obtaining nexus letters that substantiate your claim is directly related to your military service.
Negotiate on your behalf. In some situations, your attorney works alongside you, advocating for you throughout the process. Your attorney can negotiate with the VA on your behalf, helping you to get the benefits you deserve.
Having an attorney to guide you may minimize the frustrations that often come from this process. Your attorney will handle the complexities of the VA system and give you the tools necessary to make wise decisions throughout the process.
Navigating Appeals for VA Benefits
The only thing more frustrating than the VA backlog is receiving a denial for a valid claim once you finally get information. When this happens, do not hesitate to turn to an attorney. An accredited VA lawyer will help you navigate the appeals process, pulling together all of the evidence necessary to support your claim in the appeals process. Taking these steps can prove to be critical in moving your claim from being denied to finally receiving the compensation owed to you.
Even if you are unsure if you can appeal or if you just need to wait a bit longer, hiring an attorney to help you is a beneficial step. It enables you to get answers to your questions. As a nationwide VA benefits attorney, Lawyer Al Giordano becomes your advocate throughout this process. With years of experience navigating some of the most intense VA backlogs, we know how frustrating it can be, but we also know how to help you navigate your rights.
Schedule a Free Case Review Now
You need answers about your VA benefits, and we can help you. Contact The VA Claims Lawyer now to discuss your case and get answers to your questions. We serve clients across all 50 states and can help you determine where your claim stands in this process. Contact us today to learn more.
Call 877-VET-FILE today for your FREE VA benefits case review.
If we don't win your case, there is no fee.
FAQs About Veteran Disability Backlogs and Appeals
1. How likely am I to win a VA appeal?
Roughly 35% of VA appeals are approved, but your chances can improve significantly with strong documentation and professional support. The most successful appeals include detailed medical evidence, service records, expert opinions, and a clearly written explanation linking your condition to your service. Having an experienced VA disability attorney on your side can make a big difference — they know how to structure your appeal, avoid delays, and present your case in the most compelling way.
2. Should I call the VA if my benefits are delayed?
Yes, you can call the VA at 877-222-8387 to check the status of your benefits. However, many veterans find that the information provided is limited or not updated in real time. If your claim has been pending for several months with no movement — or if you’ve received a denial — it’s wise to speak with an experienced VA claims attorney. They can help you understand what’s causing the delay, escalate your case when appropriate, and guide you through the next steps.
3. Why are VA disability claims and appeals taking so long in 2025?
Backlogs remain a major issue in 2025 due to increased claims filed under the PACT Act, staffing shortages at the VA, and a high volume of appeals. Many veterans are still waiting months — or even years — for decisions. The VA has implemented new tools and faster review options, like the Higher-Level Review and Supplemental Claim lanes, but complex cases may still face delays. If you're stuck in the backlog, an attorney can help you navigate alternative appeal paths and potentially speed up your claim.
