Introduction
Understanding the distinction between primary and secondary VA claims is crucial for veterans seeking disability benefits. This article breaks down the key differences and provides clarity on these two types of claims.
What is a Primary VA Claim?
A primary VA claim, also known as a direct service connection claim, is:
- Directly related to an injury, illness, or condition that occurred during military service
- The initial claim for a specific condition
- Requires evidence linking the condition to military service
Examples of common primary claims:
| – PTSD from combat exposure |
- Hearing loss due to loud noise during service
- Knee injury from training accidents
What is a Secondary VA Claim?
A secondary VA claim is:
| – A condition that developed as a result of or was aggravated by a service-connected disability |
- Not directly caused by military service, but is a consequence of a primary condition
- Requires evidence linking the secondary condition to the primary service-connected disability
Examples of common secondary claims:
| – Depression secondary to chronic pain from a service-connected back injury |
- Sleep apnea secondary to service-connected PTSD
- Hypertension secondary to service-connected diabetes
Key Differences
- Origin of the condition:
- Primary: Directly from military service
- Secondary: Result of a service-connected disability
- Evidence requirements:
- Primary: Needs evidence linking condition to service
- Secondary: Needs evidence linking condition to primary disability
- Evaluation process:
- Primary: Evaluated independently
- Secondary: Considered in relation to primary condition
Filing Claims
For primary claims:
| – Gather service medical records |
- Obtain current medical diagnosis
- Provide evidence of in-service event or injury
For secondary claims:
| – Provide medical evidence of the secondary condition |
- Obtain a medical nexus opinion linking secondary condition to primary disability
- Document how primary condition led to or aggravated secondary condition
Impact on VA Disability Ratings
- Primary claims establish the foundation of your disability rating
- Secondary claims can increase overall disability rating
- Combined ratings are calculated using VA’s combined ratings table
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between primary and secondary VA claims is essential for maximizing your disability benefits. By knowing which type of claim to file, you can streamline the process and increase your chances of a successful outcome. Always consult with a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or accredited representative for personalized advice.
