Section B - Failure to report for Review Examination - Updated 12/16/11

Chapter 3 - Authorization Issues and Claimant Notification

Overview
{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

In this Section
This section contains the following topics:   ''' '''
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|
 * }

5.   General Information on Handling a Veteran’s Failure to Report for a Scheduled Review Examination
{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

Introduction
This topic contains information on handling a Veteran’s failure to report for a scheduled review examination. It includes information on the
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|



 ·      required discontinuation or reduction of payments

 ·      purpose and elements of a VA disability examination

 ·      initial review of returned mail, and

 ·      action to take after attempting to locate a better address. 
 * }

{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

Change Date
December 16, 2011 <p class="BlockLine" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|
 * }

{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

a.   Required Discontinuation or Reduction of Payments
<p class="MsoBlockText">When a current examination is needed to confirm a Veteran’s continued entitlement to disability benefits, and the Veteran, without adequate reason, fails to report for the examination, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is required under 38 CFR 3.655 to
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      discontinue payment for the disability(ies) for which the examination was scheduled, or

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      reduce payment for the disability(ies) for which the examination was scheduled to a

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     minimum evaluation established under 38 CFR Part 4, or

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     lower protected evaluation under 38 CFR 3.951(b).

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">Note:   Reduction or discontinuation of payments under 38 CFR 3.655(c) is not required if the evidence of record is sufficient to justify continuation of a current disability evaluation.

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">Reference:   For information on handling a Veteran’s failure to report for an examination scheduled in connection with an original or reopened claim or a claim for increase, see

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      M21-1MR, Part III, Subpart iv, 8.E.16, and

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      38 CFR 3.655(b). <p class="ContinuedOnNextPa" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">Continued on next page '''<span style="font-size:16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";color:black;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA"> '''
 * }

<p class="MapTitleContinued"> 5. General Information on Handling a Veteran’s Failure to Report for a Scheduled Review Examination, Continued <p class="BlockLine" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">

{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

b.   Purpose and Elements of a VA Disability Examination
<p class="MsoBlockText">A VA disability examination is necessary to determine whether or not a claimed disability actually exists and its functional effects on the Veteran.
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">The examination report typically consists of a medical history, physical and/or mental assessment and laboratory tests to ascertain the state of health of the Veteran.

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">Note:   An examination may also include periods of hospital observation. {| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * }
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

c.   Review of Returned Mail Notifying the Veteran of a Scheduled Examination
<p class="MsoBlockText">If a VA medical facility advises that mail notifying a Veteran of a scheduled VA examination has been returned because the Postal Service reported the letter was undeliverable at the address provided, review the claims folder and Benefits Delivery Network (BDN) to determine whether
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      the mail was erroneously addressed

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      a more recent address is of record, or

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      a valid address is available from non-VA sources, such as the Internet or telephone directory assistance.

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">Notes:

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      VA is authorized to use the Internet address locator service Accurint<span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-ascii-font-family:"Times New Roman";mso-hansi-font-family:   "Times New Roman";mso-char-type:symbol;mso-symbol-font-family:Symbol"> â  for Government (http://www.accurint.com) to obtain current address information for claimants.

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      If the Veteran receives VA benefits via direct deposit/electronic funds transfer (DD/EFT), send a letter to the Veteran’s financial institution (FI) asking for a current mailing address.

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">Reference:   For sample language for the letter to the FI, see M21-1MR, Part X, 8.5. <p class="ContinuedOnNextPa" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">Continued on next page '''<span style="font-size:16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";color:black;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA"> '''
 * }

<p class="MapTitleContinued"> 5. General Information on Handling a Veteran’s Failure to Report for a Scheduled Review Examination, Continued <p class="BlockLine" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">

{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

d.   Action Taken After Attempting to Locate a Better Address
<p class="MsoBlockText">Use the table below to determine the action to take after attempting to locate a better address. <p class="MsoNormal"> <p class="ContinuedOnNextPa" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt"> '''<span style="font-size:16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";color:black;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA"> '''
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|
 * }

6.   Rating Activity Action After a Veteran Fails to Report for a Scheduled Review Examination
{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

Introduction
<p class="MsoBlockText">This topic contains information on rating activity action after a Veteran fails to report for a scheduled review examination. It includes information on
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      referring cases to the rating activity

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      the preparation of a “Failure to Report” rating

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      the definition of static disability

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      the general action taken when a Veteran fails to report for an examination

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      notifying the Veteran of a “Failure to Report” rating without static disabilities or protected evaluations

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      the notice of proposed adverse action when the Veteran has non-static and static disabilities or protected evaluations

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      action to take when the Veteran is ready to report for an examination

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      considering good cause for not reporting for an examination

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      the action to take if a Veteran requests a hearing

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      the action to take if the Veteran fails to respond to a “Failure to Report” rating proposing termination of compensation payments, and

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      the action to take when the Veteran fails to respond to a “Failure to Report” rating proposing a reduction in compensation. <p class="BlockLine" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">
 * }

{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

Change Date
<p class="MsoBlockText">December 16, 2011 {| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|
 * }
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

a.   Referring Cases to the Rating Activity
<p class="MsoBlockText">Promptly refer any notice that a Veteran failed to report for a scheduled examination to the rating activity except when a better address is found, as described in M21-1MR, Part IV, Subpart ii, 3.B.5.d.
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">Based on the evidence of record, the rating activity will either

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      prepare a rating proposing to reduce the evaluation, or

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      make a formal final decision on this issue. <p class="ContinuedOnNextPa" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">Continued on next page '''<span style="font-size:16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";color:black;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA"> '''
 * }

<p class="MapTitleContinued"> 6. Rating Activity Action After a Veteran Fails to Report for a Scheduled Review Examination, Continued <p class="BlockLine" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">

{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

b.   Preparation of a “Failure to Report” Rating
<p class="MsoBlockText">The rating activity prepares a “Failure to Report” rating if a Veteran fails to report for a scheduled VA examination without good cause.
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">VA’s precise course of action depends on the nature of the remaining disabilities.

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      No remaining static disabilities = proposal to terminate.

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      Remaining static disabilities = proposal to reduce.

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">Notes:

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      If the Veteran has no static disabilities or protected evaluations, then the rating will propose reduction of the evaluation assigned to the disability(ies) for which the review examination was scheduled to the minimum or noncompensable level. In the Reasons for Decision section of the rating decision, state that “The Veteran failed to report for a review examination and there are no static disabilities.”

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      If the Veteran has other static disabilities or protected evaluations, then reduce the evaluation of the disability(ies) for which the review examination was scheduled and pay compensation based on the combined evaluation of all disabilities. {| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * }
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

c.   Definition: Static Disability
<p class="MsoBlockText">A static disability is a disability that is considered permanent by its nature, history and severity. It is assigned a permanent evaluation without the need for future examinations to determine whether or not the disability has improved. <p class="ContinuedOnNextPa" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">Continued on next page '''<span style="font-size:16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";color:black;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA"> '''
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|
 * }

<p class="MapTitleContinued"> 6. Rating Activity Action After a Veteran Fails to Report for a Scheduled Review Examination, Continued <p class="BlockLine" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">

{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

d.   General Action Taken When a Veteran Fails to Report for an Examination
<p class="MsoBlockText">If the rating activity determines that the evidence of record is insufficient to justify continuation of a current disability evaluation because a Veteran failed to report for an examination
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      the rating activity prepares a rating proposing a reduced evaluation, possibly to a noncompensable level, and

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      the authorization activity

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     clears (PCLR) an end product (EP) 310, using the date that the examination request was issued as the date of claim

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     establishes EP 600 with a suspense date 65 days from the date notice of the proposed reduction is sent to the Veteran

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     sends the Veteran a notice of proposed adverse action under 38 CFR 3.103(b), and

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     continues current payments. {| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * }
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

e.   Notification of a “Failure to Report” Rating Without Static Disabilities or Protected Evaluations
<p class="MsoBlockText">If the rating activity prepares a “Failure to Report” rating and there are no static disabilities or protected evaluations, send the Veteran a notice of proposed adverse action
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      advising that VA must stop compensation payments because he/she did not report for the scheduled examination and the evidence of record is not sufficient to justify continued entitlement

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      including the proposed stop date, which is no earlier than the first day of the month 60 days after the Veteran is notified of the proposed adverse action

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      furnishing due process rights, and

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      asking the Veteran to respond promptly if he/she is now ready to report for the examination. <p class="ContinuedOnNextPa" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">Continued on next page '''<span style="font-size:16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";color:black;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA"> '''
 * }

<p class="MapTitleContinued"> 6. Rating Activity Action After a Veteran Fails to Report for a Scheduled Review Examination, Continued <p class="BlockLine" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">

{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

f.   Notice of Proposed Adverse Action When the Veteran Has Non-Static and Static Disabilities or Protected Evaluations
<p class="MsoBlockText">If a rating proposes a reduced evaluation for one or more non-static disabilities, but the Veteran also has one or more static disabilities or protected evaluations, send a notice of proposed adverse action to the Veteran
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      advising that VA intends to reduce compensation payments to the rate payable for the static or protected disabilities because he/she failed to report for the scheduled examination of non-static disabilities

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      listing the non-static disabilities and each static disability or disability with a protected evaluation with the corresponding evaluation and the proposed new combined evaluation

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      providing the proposed effective date of reduction, which is no earlier than the first day of the month, 60 days after the Veteran is notified of the proposed adverse action

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      including information about due process rights, and

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      asking the Veteran respond promptly if he/she is now ready to report for the examination. <p class="BlockLine" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">
 * }

{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

g.   Action to Take When the Veteran Is Ready to Report for an Examination
<p class="MsoBlockText">If notice is received that the Veteran is willing to report for an examination before the award is reduced or suspended
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      continue the EP 600

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      defer adjustment of the award

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      refer the case for preparation of a new examination request, and

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      notify the Veteran that

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     the examination will be rescheduled, and

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     if he/she again fails to report for the examination, benefit payments will be reduced or suspended immediately.

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">If the Veteran fails to report for the rescheduled examination

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      suspend the Veteran’s award if there are no static disabilities and/or protected evaluations, or

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      reduce to the rate payable for the static evaluations, and

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      furnish contemporaneous notice of the action taken to the Veteran.

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">Reference:   For information on contemporaneous notices, see M21-1MR, Part I, 2.D. <p class="ContinuedOnNextPa" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">Continued on next page '''<span style="font-size:16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";color:black;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA"> '''
 * }

<p class="MapTitleContinued"> 6. Rating Activity Action After a Veteran Fails to Report for a Scheduled Review Examination, Continued <p class="BlockLine" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">

{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

h.   Considering Good Cause for Not Reporting for an Examination
<p class="MsoBlockText">If a claimant furnishes a good cause for not having reported for a required examination
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      the rating activity

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     defers rating action, and

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     refers the case for preparation of a new examination request, and

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      the authorization activity notifies the Veteran that failure to report for the rescheduled examination is cause for immediate termination or reduction of payment

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">Notes:

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      Examples of reasons considered good cause include

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     illness or hospitalization of the claimant, and

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     death of a family member.

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      Do not consider as good cause a Veteran’s failure to report for an examination because VA did not permit the Veteran to record the examination or be accompanied by legal. The law does not provide the Veteran with such rights. <p class="BlockLine" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">
 * }

{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

i.   Action to Take If a Veteran Requests a Hearing
<p class="MsoBlockText">The notice of proposed adverse action advises the Veteran of the right to request a hearing before the adverse action is taken.
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">If the Veteran’s request for a hearing is received within 30 days of the date of the notice of proposed adverse action

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      continue the end product, and

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      do not adjust the Veteran’s award until either

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     the hearing is held, any evidence requested as a result of the hearing is received or deemed unobtainable, and a final decision is made, or

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     the Veteran fails to appear for the hearing without good cause. <p class="ContinuedOnNextPa" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">Continued on next page '''<span style="font-size:16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";color:black;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA"> '''
 * }

<p class="MapTitleContinued"> 6. Rating Activity Action After a Veteran Fails to Report for a Scheduled Review Examination, Continued <p class="BlockLine" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">

{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

j.   Action to Take If the Veteran Fails to Respond to a “Failure to Report” Rating Proposing Termination of Compensation Payments
<p class="MsoBlockText">Use the information below to determine the action to take if the Veteran fails to respond to notification of a “Failure to Report” rating, proposing termination of compensation payments because no static disabilities or disabilities with protected evaluations exist. <p class="MsoNormal"> <p class="ContinuedOnNextPa" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">Continued on next page '''<span style="font-size:16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";color:black;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA"> '''
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|
 * }

<p class="MapTitleContinued"> 6. Rating Activity Action After a Veteran Fails to Report for a Scheduled Review Examination, Continued <p class="BlockLine" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">

{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

k.   Action to Take When the Veteran Fails to Respond to a “Failure to Report” Rating Proposing a Reduction in Compensation Payments
<p class="MsoBlockText">Use the information below to determine the action to take if the Veteran fails to respond to a “Failure to Report” rating, proposing a reduction of compensation payments because static disabilities and/or disabilities with protected evaluations exist. <p class="MsoNormal"> <p class="BlockLine" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt"> '''<span style="font-size:16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";color:black;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA"> '''
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|
 * }

7.   Award Action Taken After a Veteran Fails to Report for a Review Examination
{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

Introduction
<p class="MsoBlockText">This topic contains information on award action to take after a Veteran fails to report for a review examination. It includes information on
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      when to adjust payments

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      when to refer the claims folder to the rating activity

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      handling

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     reductions in the combined evaluation

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     military retired pay cases

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     awards that have been suspended for six months

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     abandoned claims, and

<p class="BulletText2" style="mso-list:l0 level1 lfo2"> -     other special situations. <p class="BlockLine" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">
 * }

{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

Change Date
<p class="MsoBlockText">December 13, 2005 {| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|
 * }
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

a.   When to Adjust Payments
<p class="MsoBlockText">Make all adjustments that are required because of a Veteran’s failure to report for a scheduled examination, effective on a future date. This rule applies even if the regional office loses control of the issue and payments are continued beyond the normal due process period.
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">Important:   Do not create an overpayment solely because a Veteran failed to report for a scheduled examination. {| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * }
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

b.   When to Refer the Claims Folder to the Rating Activity
<p class="MsoBlockText">After a reduction has been processed and the Veteran has been informed of the action taken, promptly refer the folder to the rating activity for the preparation of a rating that lists all disabilities with their new, continuing, and combined evaluations. <p class="ContinuedOnNextPa" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">Continued on next page '''<span style="font-size:16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";color:black;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA"> '''
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|
 * }

<p class="MapTitleContinued"> 7. Award Action Taken After a Veteran Fails to Report for a Review Examination, Continued <p class="BlockLine" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">

{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

c.   Handling a Reduction in the Combined Evaluation
<p class="MsoBlockText">Normally, the new combined evaluation is the same as that shown in the initial “Failure to Report” rating.
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">However, if the rating activity proposes to reduce the combined evaluation lower than the level originally proposed, send another notice of proposed adverse action before reducing the award based on the new combined evaluation. In this case,

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      reduce the award as indicated in the original notice of proposed adverse action, and

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      send another notice of proposed adverse action informing the Veteran of the proposed additional reduction. {| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * }
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

d.   Handling Military Retired Pay Cases
<p class="MsoBlockText">If the Veteran receives military retired pay, action to suspend or stop compensation payments generates a notice to the appropriate service department retired pay center. The service department adjusts the Veteran’s military retired pay accordingly.
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">If the Veteran later reports for the examination and compensation payments are resumed or increased, follow the procedures in M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 5, concerning awards involving military retired pay. {| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * }
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

e.   Handling Awards in Suspense for Six Months
<p class="MsoBlockText">VA Form 20-6560, Notice of Benefit Payment Transaction, with message code 615, “Account in Suspense Six Months or More,” generates after a Veteran’s award has been suspended for six months due to failure to report for a scheduled examination.
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">If the Veteran does not indicate a willingness to report for the examination, or object to the suspension of the payments,

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      stop the award the date the benefits were last paid, using reason code 17, without further notice to the Veteran, and

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      take no EP credit for this action since the final EP taken when initially suspending the award includes credit for this action. <p class="ContinuedOnNextPa" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">Continued on next page '''<span style="font-size:16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";color:black;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA"> '''
 * }

<p class="MapTitleContinued"> 7. Award Action Taken After a Veteran Fails to Report for a Review Examination, Continued <p class="BlockLine" style="margin-left:0in;mso-border-between:.75pt solid windowtext; mso-padding-between:1.0pt">

{| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

f.   Handling Abandoned Claims
<p class="MsoBlockText">Under 38 CFR 3.158(b), a Veteran who, without adequate reason, fails to report for a scheduled examination within one year of the date he/she was notified of the request gives up the right to benefits based on the claim involved.
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="MsoBlockText">Use the table below to determine how to handle different situations involving potential abandoned claims. <p class="MsoNormal"> {| border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse:collapse;mso-table-layout-alt:fixed;mso-padding-alt: 0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt"
 * }
 * - style="mso-yfti-irow:0;mso-yfti-firstrow:yes;mso-yfti-lastrow:yes;  page-break-inside:avoid"
 * style="width:1.2in;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="115"|

g.   Handling Other Special Situations
<p class="MsoBlockText">For information on handling the failure of
 * style="width:387.0pt;padding:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt" valign="top" width="516"|

<p class="MsoBlockText">

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      a claimant to prosecute a claim, see M21-1, Part V, 10.03

<p class="BulletText1" style="mso-list:l1 level1 lfo1"><span style="font-family:Symbol;mso-fareast-font-family:Symbol;mso-bidi-font-family:  Symbol;color:windowtext"> ·      an incompetent Veteran to report for an examination, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 9.B.4.
 * }