The Board is later in the decision-review system. Pick the lane on purpose. A hearing is slower. Direct review is faster and uses the record you already have.
Who it is usually for.
Veterans who already used HLR or Supplemental and still disagree, or who choose the Board path from a decision letter.
What to have in hand.
- Decision letters
- The claim file
- Hearing notes if you choose that lane
Moves.
- Read the decision-review options on the letter.
- Choose direct, evidence, or hearing — not all three.
- An accredited representative is worth it at this level.
Timing hint: Board dockets are long; pick the lane that matches your evidence.