Department of Veterans Affairs s3

Department of Veterans Affairs M21-1MR, Part I Veterans Benefits Administration December 10, 2009 Washington, DC 20420 Transmittal Sheet

Changes The table below describes the changes to Part I, Chapter 5, Section B, “Notice Inclu of Disagreement (NOD).” ded in This Revi sion

Location of the revision Reason(s) for the change Substantive Changes (Policy and Procedural Changes) Page 5-B-17: Part I, To update the second paragraph under the Chapter 5, Section B, heading “May I be represented?” to reflect the Topic 8, Block b changes in policy for representation by agents or (I.5.B.8.b) attorneys mandated by 38 U.S.C. § 5904 and 38 C.F.R. § 14.636. Page 5-B-19: I.5.B.9.b To update the second paragraph under the heading “May I be represented?” to reflect the changes in policy for representation by agents or attorneys mandated by 38 U.S.C. § 5904 and 38 C.F.R. § 14.636.

Non-Substantive Changes (Editorial, Verbiage, Pagination Changes) Throughout this  To capitalize the word “Veteran.” revision  To include the symbol for section, §, in citations of statutes and regulations where appropriate.  To bring the format and punctuation of the document into conformance with M21-1 publication standards. Page 5-B-4: I.5.B.4.a To remove a reference citation for a rescinded M21-1 paragraph. Page 5-B-5: I.5.B.4.c To correct the name of VA Form 4107, Your Rights to Appeal Our Decision. Page 5-B-11: I.5.B.6.b To replace “VA Form 119, Report of Contact” with “VA Form 21-0820, Report of General Information,” because VA Form 119 is no longer used.

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i Transmittal Sheet, Continued

Rescissions None

Authority By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Signature

Bradley G. Mayes, Director Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution RPC: 2068 FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED