Step 1: Understand What a Secondary Disability Claim Is

A secondary VA disability claim is a claim for a condition that has developed as a result of a service-connected disability or has been aggravated by a service-connected disability. For example, if you were service-connected for a knee injury, and as a result, you developed hip or back problems, you may be eligible for secondary service connection for those conditions.

Step 2: Gather Medical Evidence Linking the Conditions

The most important part of your secondary disability claim is providing medical evidence that demonstrates a link between your service-connected condition and the secondary condition. This can include:

• Medical Records: Provide records that show the diagnosis and treatment of both the primary and secondary conditions.
• Doctor’s Nexus Opinion: A nexus letter from your doctor is critical. This letter should clearly state that your secondary condition was caused or aggravated by your service-connected disability.
• Causal Link: It’s essential to establish that the service-connected condition directly led to or worsened the secondary condition.

Step 3: Complete the VA Disability Claim Application

To file a secondary claim, you’ll need to submit a VA disability claim through the VA’s eBenefits portal or by filling out VA Form 21-526EZ, which is the standard application for disability compensation. Be sure to:

• Complete the application fully: Accurately describe both your primary and secondary conditions, providing all necessary details.
• Attach all medical evidence: Ensure that you include your medical records, a nexus letter, and any other supporting documents.
• Be specific about the secondary condition: When describing how the secondary condition developed, be as clear and specific as possible about how it’s related to your service-connected condition.

Step 4: Provide Evidence of Aggravation

In some cases, veterans need to prove that their service-connected condition has aggravated their secondary condition. If you have prior medical records that show your secondary condition worsened due to the service-connected disability, make sure to provide that documentation as well.

Step 5: Attend a Compensation and Pension (C&P) Exam

After you submit your claim, the VA may schedule you for a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam. This exam is used to assess the severity of your condition and determine how it’s related to your service-connected disability.

• Be prepared: Be honest and thorough when describing your symptoms during the C&P exam.
• Bring supporting documents: If possible, bring any additional medical records that further support the link between your service-connected and secondary conditions.

Step 6: Monitor the Status of Your Claim

Once your claim has been submitted, it’s essential to track its progress. You can monitor your claim status through the VA’s eBenefits portal. If the VA requires additional information or documents, make sure to respond promptly to avoid delays.

Step 7: Be Prepared for an Appeal

It’s common for secondary disability claims to be denied. If this happens, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process can be lengthy and challenging, but it’s important to continue pursuing your claim.

• Request Reconsideration: If your claim is denied, you can request that the VA re-evaluate the decision based on new evidence or arguments.
• File an Appeal: If reconsideration doesn’t lead to a positive outcome, you can file an appeal and request a hearing before the Board of Veterans’ Appeals.

Step 8: Seek Legal Help If Needed

Navigating a secondary disability claim can be difficult, especially if the VA initially denies your claim. Working with a veterans’ disability lawyer or claims agent can significantly improve your chances of success. An experienced professional can help gather medical evidence, submit a stronger claim, and assist with appeals if necessary.