How to Prove Service Connection in Your VA Disability Claim 

Posted by Berry Law on February 21, 2025 in Veterans Appeals

One of the most critical aspects of a VA disability claim is proving a service connection between your condition and your military service. Without this connection, the VA may deny your claim, leaving you without the benefits you deserve. Understanding how to establish this link and how a VA disability lawyer can help gather the necessary evidence is essential to securing your compensation. At Berry Law, we fight for Veterans to make sure their service-related injuries receive the recognition they deserve. 

1. Understanding Service Connection in VA Claims 

A service connection is the VA’s acknowledgment that your disability was caused or aggravated by your military service. To qualify for disability benefits, you must establish: 

• A Current Condition – You must have a current condition or symptoms. 

• An In-Service Event, Injury, or Exposure – indication that your condition began or worsened due to service. 

• A Nexus Between the Two – Medical evidence linking your diagnosis to your military service. 

For more details on service-connected disabilities, visit the VA Disability Compensation Guide. 

2. Types of Service Connection 

There are different ways to establish service connection, including: 

• Direct Service Connection – When an injury or illness is directly related to military service. 

• Presumptive Service Connection – Certain conditions are automatically presumed to be service-connected based on exposure risks (e.g., Agent Orange, Gulf War Syndrome), these conditions can be service connected if the veteran has a current condition and meets certain criteria to establish the presumption.  

• Secondary Service Connection – When a service-connected condition causes or worsens another disability. 

• Aggravation of a Preexisting Condition – If military service worsened a preexisting condition beyond its natural progression. 

3. Gathering Evidence to Support Your Claim 

To prove service connection, you may need supporting evidence, potentially including: 

• Service Medical Records – Documentation of in-service injuries or illnesses. 

• Private & VA Medical Records – Diagnoses and treatment records linking your condition to service. 

• Nexus Letters from Medical Experts – Written statements from doctors explaining how your condition is service-related. 

• Buddy Statements – Testimonies from fellow service members or family members verifying your condition’s impact. 

For guidance on collecting evidence, visit this guide from the VA. 

4. How a VA Disability Lawyer Can Help 

Navigating the VA claims process can be complex, and mistakes can lead to delays or denials. A VA disability lawyer can: 

• Identify Missing Evidence – Making sure your claim is fully supported.  

• Obtain Nexus Letters – Coordinating with medical experts to strengthen your case. 

• Challenge Denials – Appealing claim rejections and arguing for higher ratings. 

• Represent You in Appeals – Advocating on your behalf at hearings before the VA regional office and the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA). 

5. What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied 

If the VA denies your claim, you have options. You can:  

• Supplemental Claim – Submit new and relevant evidence to strengthen your case. 

• Higher-Level Review – Request a senior VA adjudicator to reevaluate your claim. 

• Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA) – Appeal your case before a Veterans Law Judge. 

Proving service connection is crucial to securing VA disability benefits. Don’t navigate this process alone—let Berry Law help you gather the evidence and fight for the compensation you earned. 

Contact us today for a free case evaluation. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

1. What is the most important piece of evidence for proving service connection? A Veteran’s statement is often the most critical evidence. 

2. How long does it take for the VA to determine service connection?  It varies. It can take anywhere from 1 month to two years for an initial claim. It may take longer. It depends on how much development is necessary from the VA and how quickly the VA can get to the claim.  

3. Can I prove service connection without medical records? Yes, but it is more difficult. Additional evidence may be necessary like statements from you, friends, or medical professionals.   

4. What if the VA says my condition is not service-connected? You can appeal the decision by submitting new evidence, requesting a higher-level review, or taking your case to the BVA. 

5. How do I get started with a VA disability lawyer? Contact Berry Law for a free case evaluation. We will assess your case and guide you through the process.