Secondary Conditions: How to File for Additional VA Disability

What Is a Secondary Condition?

A secondary condition is a disability that was caused by—or made worse by—a condition you're already service-connected for. Under 38 CFR 3.310, the VA must grant service connection for secondary conditions if you can prove the link.

This is one of the most overlooked ways to increase your VA rating.

How Secondary Claims Work

To win a secondary claim, you need to show:

1. A current diagnosis of the secondary condition
2. An already service-connected primary condition
3. A medical nexus showing the secondary condition was caused OR aggravated by the primary condition

Common Secondary Condition Examples

Mental Health Secondaries

• Depression or Anxiety secondary to chronic pain conditions
• Sleep disorders secondary to PTSD or chronic pain

Musculoskeletal Secondaries

• Opposite knee/hip condition secondary to favoring one leg
• Back condition secondary to altered gait
• Radiculopathy secondary to spine conditions

Other Common Secondaries

• Hypertension secondary to PTSD, sleep apnea, or kidney disease
• Erectile dysfunction secondary to medications or mental health conditions
• GERD secondary to NSAIDs for pain

The Importance of a Nexus Letter

For secondary claims, a nexus letter is often essential. It should state that your secondary condition is "at least as likely as not" caused by or aggravated by your primary condition.

How to File a Secondary Claim

1. Get diagnosed
2. Get a nexus letter
3. File VA Form 21-526EZ (check the secondary claim box)
4. Identify the primary condition
5. Submit your evidence

The Bottom Line

If you're already service-connected, look at what other conditions you have. Many veterans are living with secondary conditions they could be compensated for.