When veterans think about VA disability pay, they often focus on health problems directly caused by their military service. However, many veterans may not know about a secondary service connection, which can also lead to VA disability benefits.
Understanding the secondary service connection can help you get the benefits you deserve.
What is a secondary service connection?
A secondary service connection is when a service-connected condition causes or aggravates another disability. In other words, if you have a service-connected disability that leads to or worsens another health problem, you may qualify for more VA disability pay for that secondary condition.
How can you prove a secondary service connection?
To prove a secondary service connection, you need evidence that shows a link between your service-connected condition and the secondary disability. You should have medical records that show how your secondary condition has progressed and how it relates to your service-connected disability. You might also want statements from a healthcare provider that explain how your service-connected disability caused or made your secondary disability worse.
Why is a secondary service connection important?
Proving a secondary service connection can lead to more VA disability pay, which can help you get the care and support you need. Work with your healthcare providers to identify and document any potential secondary conditions for your claim.
Veterans who do not understand the secondary service connection can miss out on valuable compensation. If you think you have a secondary condition related to your service-connected disability, talk to your healthcare provider and start gathering the evidence you need to support your claim.