Claim back to Step 5 after 0% migraines + sinus/rhinitis denial (TERA evidence)
Quick question for anyone who’s been through something similar.
Jan 30: Decision letter
Migraines granted at 0% (lack of frequency)
Rhinitis & sinusitis denied for “lack of exposure,” despite TERA/IES evidence already in my file
Jan 31: VA completed an IMO (record review only)
Feb 3–5: New DBQs added (Headaches, Rhinitis, Apnea/secondary)
Claim moved back through Evidence Review and is now again at Step 5 (Rating)
No new evidence requested; exams marked “no longer needed.”
Has anyone seen a decision change after this?
How long did it take once it returned to Step 5?
Posted Feb 7, 2026, 11:05 PM UTC
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