Board Hearing Types: Central, Video, and Travel Board
Central Office hearing
The appears in person before a () at the Board's offices in Washington, . Historically the least-common choice because of travel cost, but some veterans prefer it. VA does not reimburse travel for Board hearings.
Videoconference hearing
The appears from a VA facility — or, since 2020, from the veteran's own home using the Board's platform. The is in Washington. This is the most common Board hearing format and the fastest to schedule.
Travel Board hearing
A travels to the 's periodically and holds hearings there in person. Wait times for Travel Board are the longest of the three formats because the schedule depends on when a VLJ is next in the region.
How to choose
- In person matters to you — Central Office (if you can travel) or Travel Board (patience required).
- Fastest scheduling — Virtual videoconference from home.
- You want VA-facility technology support — Videoconference at a VA facility.
- You have physical or transportation limits — Virtual home videoconference is easiest.
What happens at the hearing
The opens the record, identifies the issues, and asks the (and any witnesses) questions about the . The veteran or their representative can also present argument. The hearing is transcribed. It is not a trial — no cross-examination by opposing counsel. The VLJ typically does not decide the case at the hearing; a written decision comes later.
Disclaimer
Educational and informational content only — not legal or medical advice. Oakridge Claims is a private, independent business and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Representation is provided by a VA- in accordance with 38 C.F.R. § 14.636. Outcomes depend on individual facts; no specific result is guaranteed.
Where these claims break down
- ×Choosing Travel Board hoping it will be faster — it is usually the slowest to schedule.
- ×Skipping the hearing to save time — for some cases the VLJ's direct questioning helps clarify the record.
- ×Bringing new evidence to a hearing without submitting it in advance — Board rules require a 90-day window on Direct Docket cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Useful Tools & Topics
Have questions about your specific case?
Every veteran's facts are different. A free initial consultation with a VA-Accredited Claims Agent can tell you whether your matter is a fit for representation — and what the right next step looks like either way.
Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Oakridge Claims is a private business and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. No guarantees of outcomes are made. Each claim is decided on its individual facts.
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