M21-4 · Section 5.9

SOAR Retention

M21-4 section 5.9. Official source text with a separately reviewed Claim Raven explanation when available.

Claim Raven wrote the explanation that follows. The original VA text appears below it, unchanged.

What this means

m21-4:5.9 explains SOAR retention. In plain terms, the official guidance says retain a copy of the SOAR, the log of control for recommendations, and related working documents in an electronic folder specific to the topic. It also addresses dispose of these reports and related material in accordance with RCS VB-1 part I item number 13-098.000.

How this may help with a claim

Use m21-4:5.9 when organizing evidence or checking VA's handling of SOAR retention. Compare your application, supporting records, and notice with this source-specific point: Retain a copy of the SOAR, the log of control for recommendations, and related working documents in an electronic folder specific to the topic. Dispose of these reports and related material in accordance with RCS VB-1 part I item number 13-098.000. Save proof of submission and identify the exact condition, exception, or missing development step before requesting correction or choosing a review option.

What to review in your file

  • Check the file against this official condition: Retain a copy of the SOAR, the log of control for recommendations, and related working documents in an electronic folder specific to the topic.
  • Confirm that the record or notice addresses this source point: Dispose of these reports and related material in accordance with RCS VB-1 part I item number 13-098.000.
  • Document how this stated step or exception applies: Retain a copy of the SOAR, the log of control for recommendations, and related working documents in an electronic folder specific to the topic.

Important limits

m21-4:5.9 explains VA guidance for SOAR retention; it does not guarantee an award or replace the statutes, regulations, binding decisions, and review instructions that control an individual claim. Conditions and exceptions still matter, including this source point: Retain a copy of the SOAR, the log of control for recommendations, and related working documents in an electronic folder specific to the topic. Dispose of these reports and related material in accordance with RCS VB-1 part I item number 13-098.000.

Search terms when useful

Phrases that may help when searching your claim file or this library.

  • SOAR Retention
  • m21-4:5.9
  • Retention
  • disposition reports material.
  • 5.9.a. SOAR Retention
  • Retain copy SOAR control
  • 5.9.b. Disposition Reports Material
  • Dispose these reports related

Original VA guidance

The official VA text of this section

9. Retention

Introduction

This topic contains information on SOAR retention, including

  • SOAR retention, and
  • disposition of reports and material.

Change Date

January 13, 2022

5.9.a. SOAR Retention

Retain a copy of the SOAR, the log of control for recommendations, and related working documents in an electronic folder specific to the topic.

5.9.b. Disposition of Reports and Material

Dispose of these reports and related material in accordance with RCS VB-1 part I item number 13-098.000.