Finalizing the Rating Decision

Overview

In This Section

This section contains the following topics:

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1. Uploading and Distributing the Rating Decision

Introduction

This topic contains information about printing/uploading and distributing the rating decision, including

• retaining evidence
• uploading the rating decision
• prohibition against altering signed rating decisions, and
• distributing the Narrative section of the rating decision.

Change Date

January 7, 2025

V.iv.1.D.1.a. Retaining Evidence

Retain all evidence pertinent to the rating decision in the claims folder.

Reference: For information on non-retention of records referring to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), alcohol or drug abuse, or sickle cell anemia, see M21-1, Part II, Subpart ii, 2.B.3.

V.iv.1.D.1.b. Uploading the Rating Decision

The rating decision will automatically upload to the electronic claims folder (eFolder) upon finalization of the decision.

V.iv.1.D.1.c. Prohibition Against Altering Signed Rating Decisions

Do not alter any rating decision that has been signed and submitted for promulgation. When a rating decision requires correction prior to promulgation, follow the procedures outlined in M21-1, Part V, Subpart iv, 1.E.3.

V.iv.1.D.1.d. Distributing the Narrative Section of the Rating Decision

The claimant will receive the Narrative section of the rating decision with notification of the decision.

Important:

• The Codesheet of the rating decision is intended for internal processing and should not be routinely distributed to the claimant.
• Copies of draft decisions should not be released to the claimant, as discussed in M21-1, Part VI, Subpart i, 1.B.1.p.

References: For more information on

• completing the rating decision narrative, see M21-1, Part V, Subpart iv, 1.A, and
• decision notices, see M21-1, Part VI, Subpart i, 1.B.

2. Preparing Rating Decisions for Other Entities

Introduction

This topic contains information about preparing rating decisions for other entities, including

• making copies of rating decisions
• copies for powers of attorney (POAs), and
• preparing rating decisions for other entities.

Change Date

January 7, 2025

V.iv.1.D.2.a. Making Copies of Rating Decisions

Whenever additional copies of the rating decision are required make appropriate entries in the COPY TO field of the Codesheet, to ensure notification of the rating decision is provided to the required entities.

Note: Follow the guidance in the blocks below to provide copies of rating decisions in the appropriate format to applicable entities.

V.iv.1.D.2.b. Copies for POAs

Unless a power of attorney (POA) has opted into electronic notification, provide the POA with a copy of the rating decision as an enclosure to the decision notice.

References: For more information on

• providing notice of correspondence to POAs, see M21-1, Part I, Subpart i, 2.B.1.c and d, and
• electronic notification, see the POA Electronic Notification Fact Sheet.

V.iv.1.D.2.c. Preparing Rating Decisions for Other Entities

Use the table below to find relevant references for preparing rating decisions for other entities.

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