§5104 Decisions and Notices of Decisions

Summary

When the Secretary decides about a claimant’s benefits, the claimant and their representative must get a timely notice that explains how to ask for a review of that decision. The notice must say what was decided, give a short summary of the evidence and the laws used, point out findings that help the claimant, and — if benefits were denied — explain which requirements were not met. It must tell how to get the evidence used and, if needed, list the criteria for service connection or a higher payment level. Notices can be sent electronically if the claimant or representative chooses and can stop that choice at any time as the Secretary allows. Each year the Secretary must ask for ideas to improve these notices and post those suggestions on the Department’s public website.