c. Photocopies Photocopies of service treatment records (STRs) are acceptable for rating of STRs purposes if examination of the copies confirms they are genuine, and free from alteration. 6. New and Material Evidence Under 38 CFR 3.156 This topic contains information on new and material evidence under 38 CFR Introduction 3.156, including role of new and material evidence effect of new and material evidence on a claim example of new evidence example of material evidence, and how the concept of new and material evidence applies when character of discharge is at issue. June 26, 2015 Change Date A claimant must submit new and material evidence to reopen a claim that has a. Role of New and Material become final because the Evidence appeal period has expired, or appellate review is complete. For more information on References: the definition of new and material evidence, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart iv, 2.B.3, and M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 2.D.1.b, and the notification requirements for requests to reopen a previously denied claim, see M21-1, Part I, 1.B.2. A determination by VA that evidence is new and material means the b. Effect of New and evidence, by itself or when considered with evidence already of record, Material Evidence on a relates to an unestablished fact that is required to substantiate the claim, and Claim raises a of substantiating the claim. reasonable possibility
c. Photocopies of STRs Photocopies of service treatment records (STRs) are acceptable for rating purposes if examination of the copies confirms they are genuine, and free from alteration. 6. New and Material Evidence Under 38 CFR 3.156 Introduction This topic contains information on new and material evidence under 38 CFR 3.156, including role of new and material evidence effect of new and material evidence on a claim example of new evidence example of material evidence, and how the concept of new and material evidence applies when character of discharge is at issue. Change Date June 26, 2015 a. Role of New and Material Evidence A claimant must submit new and material evidence to reopen a claim that has become final because the appeal period has expired, or appellate review is complete. References: For more information on the definition of new and material evidence, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart iv, 2.B.3, and M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 2.D.1.b, and the notification requirements for requests to reopen a previously denied claim, see M21-1, Part I, 1.B.2. b. Effect of New and Material Evidence on a Claim A determination by VA that evidence is new and material means the evidence, by itself or when considered with evidence already of record, relates to an unestablished fact that is required to substantiate the claim, and raises a reasonable possibility of substantiating the claim.
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