When circumstances make waiting harder
VA provides priority handling for certain qualifying circumstances or status. Extreme financial hardship, homelessness, and terminal illness are among the situations addressed in VA’s guidance. A long wait alone does not establish that a claim qualifies.
Explain the reason and identify supporting evidence
For extreme financial hardship, useful records may include an eviction or foreclosure notice, past-due utility notices, or collection notices. For a medical basis, identify the relevant treatment and provide available medical documentation. Describe your situation accurately; the form’s current instructions explain the information for each category.
How to request consideration
VA Form 20-10207 is the Priority Processing Request. VA offers an online request and a downloadable form. Use the official form page below for current submission options. The form is a way to bring a qualifying circumstance to VA’s attention; VA’s manual says use of this particular form is not required to request priority processing.
Keep expectations realistic
A request does not guarantee a decision date, approval, or a particular rating. Continue responding to evidence requests and attending any required exams. Appeals already at the Board of Veterans’ Appeals have a separate process for requesting advancement on the docket; follow the instructions for your stage of review.