Returning to Fed Svc after a Year

Will someone from HR lend some insight please?

I quit a federal GS-09, step 3 Jun of 2025. Currently the job I received a TJO from (the VA) is listed as a GS-05/07/09. So each year I would receive a grade up if they deem me qualified. I rcvd a TJO for a GS-05-01. Do I have room to negotiate a higher step? Thank you.