The Veteran's Advantage

Federal Circuit Alert: In Hamill v. Collins (2026), the court held that VA generally can't expect veterans to guess a claim was denied—it should provide clear notice.

New Claim: Read every Rating Decision completely.

Supplemental Claim: Confirm every denied issue before submitting new and relevant evidence.

Higher-Level Review: Check whether VA clearly identified every issue it decided.

Board Appeal: Look for overlooked issues or inadequate notice that may affect your appeal and effective date.

Strategic takeaway: Don't assume. Verify every decision. Protect your appeal rights and effective date.

Build the case. Then protect the case.

Authority: Hamill v. Collins, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (Feb. 4, 2026).

Freedom is celebrated in July.

As we celebrate Independence Day, we also honor those who defended it.

Military service earns our nation's gratitude. VA benefits, however, are awarded through evidence, law, and the facts of each individual claim.

Honor your service.

Build your case.

Happy Independence Day to all who have served and continue to serve.

Educational content only. Not legal advice.

Freedom is celebrated in July. The law evolves all year. If your strategy hasn't, you're already behind.