Secondary Action Required VA Claim: What to Do Next in 2026

You’ve filed your VA claim, eagerly awaiting a decision, when a notice arrives saying “secondary action required VA claim.” Your heart sinks. What does this mean? Are your benefits in jeopardy?

Don’t worry! From our experience, this notice isn’t a roadblock but a step forward in the VA claims process.

For the FY2025, veterans and their families secured over $195 billion in disability compensation and pension benefits, proving how crucial it is to tackle these steps quickly to keep your claim on track.

This article breaks down what a secondary action means, why it happens, and how to respond effectively to move closer to a favorable outcome.

We’ll guide you through clear, actionable steps to handle this notice with confidence. Whether you’re a first-time filer, a veteran with a pending claim, or a family member helping out.

For more context, check out our previous article on VA disability claim filing mistakes to avoid common pitfalls. If you’re looking ahead, our next piece on  VA fully developed claim will dive into streamlining your process.For a complete guide, our post on initial VA disability claims filing covers everything you need to start strong.

What Does Secondary Action Required Mean for Your VA Claim?

Got that “Secondary Action Required” notice? Don’t panic. It means the VA needs a little more from you before finishing their review. Think of it as a request for the final puzzle pieces.

This step usually happens after they’ve looked at your initial file but before a final rating decision. Seeing this status is actually good news. It means your claim is moving forward!

In 2026, the VA’s automated systems are faster than ever, so seeing this update means your claim hasn’t been “lost” in the system. It’s actively being worked on.

They just need specific details clarified or extra proof. You typically have 30 days to respond. Please pay close attention to the deadline. Missing it can pause your claim completely. Worse, they might decide based only on what they already have, which could lead to a denial.

Responding quickly keeps things on track.

Most Common Reasons for Secondary Action Required VA Claims

Why did the VA send you this request? It’s almost always because they need clearer proof or specific details. Here are the top reasons:

• Missing or incomplete medical records: Maybe they couldn’t get records from your current doctor or need more treatment history showing your current condition. They require records proving the severity.
• The link needs strengthening: They need clearer evidence linking your disability directly to your military service. This is common for PACT Act claims where the service connection isn’t automatically conceded.
• Specific documents or forms: They might ask for particular supporting documents like an employer statement or additional forms (like the updated VA Form 21-4192). Check the request carefully.
• Understanding your daily life: They need more clarification on exactly how your disability limits your ability to perform daily activities. How does it affect work or home life?
• Need for a new exam (C&P): Sometimes, your relevant medical records aren’t recent enough. They may order a new Compensation & Pension exam to determine your current condition.
• Proof of severity: Your existing documentation might not clearly show how bad things are right now. They need concrete evidence of your disability’s impact.

The important thing is identifying exactly what they need from the notice itself. Understanding the frequent reason helps you gather the right necessary documentation quickly. Always check your VA.gov portal first, as digital notices often appear days before paper mail arrives.

How to Respond to Your Secondary Action Request

Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1. Review the VA Letter Thoroughly

Read the notice very carefully. It tells you exactly what additional evidence or requested information the VA needs. Pay close attention to every detail. Check for “Internal Action” notes, which might mean the VA is waiting on a third party, not you.

Step 2. Gather the Specific Evidence

Collect only the supporting documents or information explicitly listed in the request. Focus is key. Avoid sending unrelated materials. (See common documents below)

Step 3. Submit Your Response Correctly

• Choose Your Channel: Use the VA QuickSubmit (the fastest method in 2026). While mail and fax still exist, they are significantly slower.
• Keep Copies: Always keep digital copies of every single page you send. Note the date and the digital confirmation number.

Step 4. Confirm Receipt

Don’t assume the VA got it! Within 24-48 hours of a digital upload, check your online claim status on VA.gov. The “Average Days to Complete” a claim in 2026 is currently hovering around 85 days, so confirming receipt early is vital to staying on schedule.

Step 5. Understand the Waiting Period

After submitting, the VA claims process typically takes another 30-60 days for a rating decision. Patience is needed, but stay informed.

Step 6. Follow Up If Needed

Check your online claim status every 2-3 weeks. If you hear nothing after 60 days, inquire. Call the VA at 1-800-827-1000 or contact your VSO.

Avoiding Common Mistakes with Secondary Action Responses

A small slip-up can cause big delays. Here’s how to steer clear of common pitfalls:

• Sending the wrong stuff: Only provide the requested information. Submitting extra documentation confuses the VA’s AI-sorting tools and slows things down.
• Missing the deadline: This is critical. You usually have 30 days to respond. Missing the response deadline can lead to your claim being closed or denied based only on existing evidence. Mark your calendar!
• Ignoring the specifics: Read the request precisely. If they ask for proof you can’t perform daily activities, give concrete examples or doctor notes. Generic evidence won’t cut it. Answer what they actually asked.
• Messy submissions: Ensure all PDFs are high-resolution and readable. Unclear scans are a leading cause of delays.
• No proof of sending: Always keep copies of every page you send to Veterans Affairs. Note the date and method you used. This is vital if there’s any dispute later about receiving your necessary documentation.

Taking care with your response avoids unnecessary hold-ups. Complete and accurate documentation submitted on time is your best path forward.

When to Get Help with Secondary Action Required Claims

Feeling stuck with your “Secondary Action Required” notice? Sometimes, getting expert help is the smartest move.It saves time and boosts your chance of a favorable outcome at the new 2026 benefit rates. Let’s explore when reaching out makes sense.

Signs You Might Need a Pro

• The request seems confusing or involves complex “Special Monthly Compensation” (SMC) rules.
• Gathering the necessary documentation feels impossible. Maybe records are hard to find, or the evidence linking feels weak.
• You’ve received multiple secondary action required notices on the same claim.
• Your disability significantly impacts your ability to perform daily activities, making handling paperwork very difficult.
• You’re facing a tight deadline and worry you’ll miss the response deadline.

How Experienced Coaches Make a Difference

Working with knowledgeable guides, like our team, transforms the process:

• They review the request with a trained eye, spotting exactly what the VA needs.
• They help gather and organize the strongest supporting documentation efficiently.
• They ensure your response directly addresses the VA’s specific concerns, avoiding common pitfalls.
• They handle communication and follow up with Veterans Affairs, taking that burden off you.
• They strategize to strengthen your claim for the best possible rating decision based on the latest 2026 COLA increases.

Red Flags: Time for Expert Guidance

Watch for these situations. They often signal the need for expert help:

Why Our Success Includes Handling Secondary Actions

Complex secondary action required VA claims are core to our work. At Your VA Benefits, navigating these precise requests is a strength. Our 96% success rate reflects deep experience turning these requests into approved benefits. 

We understand the nuances the VA system demands.