Question 1

What is a secondary service-connected condition?

Accepted Answer

Under 38 CFR 3.310, a condition that is directly caused or aggravated by an already service-connected condition is itself service-connected. For example, depression caused by chronic back pain is a secondary condition to lumbar strain.

Question 2

What do I need to file a secondary claim?

Accepted Answer

You need three things: (1) a current diagnosis of the secondary condition, (2) a nexus opinion from a licensed provider stating it is at least as likely as not that your primary condition caused or aggravated the secondary condition, and (3) your current service-connected rating decision for the primary condition.

Question 3

What is a nexus letter?

Accepted Answer

A nexus letter is a medical opinion from a licensed provider that establishes the connection between your primary service-connected condition and the secondary condition you are claiming. It must state that the connection is 'at least as likely as not' (50% or greater probability).

Question 4

How much can secondary claims increase my rating?

Accepted Answer

Secondary claims can significantly increase your combined disability rating. Each approved secondary condition adds its own rating, which is combined using the VA's combined ratings table. Some veterans gain 20-40% or more in combined rating from secondary claims alone.

Secondary Conditions Mapper

Step 1: Your Service-Connected Conditions

Step 2: Current Combined Rating (Optional)