The Supreme Court has tightened the rules for veterans challenging Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefit denials. In a 7–2 decision in Bufkin v. Collins, the Court said federal courts must defer to the VA unless there is a “clear error.”

This ruling replaces the long-used “benefit-of-the-doubt” standard, which favored veterans when evidence was evenly balanced. Joshua Bufkin and Norman Thornton, both denied PTSD-related benefits, argued they met that standard, but the Court disagreed.

Now, veterans must present overwhelming proof of VA mistakes to overturn denials. Critics warn this creates “a significantly higher burden of proof” and may discourage appeals, especially in cases with incomplete or contested medical records.

Supporters say the decision reinforces VA expertise, but opponents argue it unfairly tilts the system. Two dissenting justices said the ruling weakens protections that “honor veterans’ sacrifices.”

The decision is expected to reshape disability claims, and advocates may push Congress to restore parts of the benefit-of-the-doubt rule.