When it comes to VA claim denials, everything really boils down to one key question:
Why were you denied in the first place?
The answer to that question will shape your next steps. Many veterans often skip over the most critical aspect — service connection — and instead focus on how the VA rated their disability. But here’s the truth: none of that matters if you weren’t service-connected to begin with. Service connection is the first big hurdle, and everything else hinges on that.
Focus on the Right Thing: Service Connection
If you’ve been denied, start by understanding what part of the service connection puzzle is missing. Denials can get complicated quickly, but the goal here is to make things as clear as possible. Let’s walk through the main reasons why veterans are typically denied — and what you can do about each one.
The Four Main Reasons for VA Claim Denials
- Lack of evidence from service
- Lack of a current diagnosis
- Lack of a persistent disability (continuity of symptoms)
- Lack of a nexus (connection between your condition and service)
1. Lack of Evidence from Service
In my opinion, this is the most difficult denial to overcome. If there’s no medical evidence from service, you’ll need to rely on non-medical or “lay” evidence. Buddy statements, performance reviews, or any documentation showing changes or incidents during service can help.
Example: I helped a Marine veteran filing a PTSD claim due to MST. She had zero medical evidence from service, but her “fit reps” — annual performance evaluations — showed a clear decline aligned with the events she described. That decline served as supporting evidence.
2. Lack of a Current Diagnosis
This one is simple: If you don’t have a diagnosis, go get one. Whether it’s through VA care using the secure messaging system or through private insurance, you need documented proof of your current condition.
3. Lack of Persistent Disability
This refers to the gap in your medical history. Maybe you were diagnosed in 1995, but there’s no record of treatment since then. That long gap hurts your claim. Fill it with medical records, pharmacy logs, or even personal statements about your self-treatment or over-the-counter remedies.
4. Lack of a Nexus
This is especially common in secondary claims. A nexus is the medical connection between your current disability and your service (or another service-connected condition).
If you’re missing a nexus, consider a Nexus letter from a qualified medical provider. Tools like AM (linked below) or Veteran AI can assist, provided your provider is willing to sign off on the connection.
Understanding Decision Letters
Let’s look at a common denial:
- Claim: Back pain (upper and lower)
- Diagnosis found: Yes
- Service connection: No evidence
This means the veteran has a current diagnosis but no evidence linking it to service. The next steps? Either submit new service evidence or file a secondary claim — and in both cases, the evidence must be new and relevant.
Special Case: Army National Guard
The National Guard often faces more complications. For example, a claim for tinnitus might show both a diagnosis and a qualifying event, but the Guard’s documentation systems can muddy the waters. Always check whether you served during qualifying federal duty periods.
Recommended Next Steps After a Denial
- Higher-Level Review (HLR): Always consider this first. Request an informal conference and submit a brief statement outlining your key evidence.
- Supplemental Claim: If you have new evidence, this is your go-to route.
- Nexus Letter: Consider this especially for secondary claims where the connection needs clearer support.
Final Thoughts
Fighting a denial is no easy task — it’s an uphill battle that starts with understanding your decision letter. Evidence is king. You must show:
- Evidence from service
- A current diagnosis
- A persistent or ongoing disability
- A clear nexus, especially for secondary claims
Without these, a denial is almost guaranteed. But with the right strategy and support, many veterans do win their claims on appeal.
Stay informed. Stay persistent.
Disclaimer: This article includes commentary based on personal experience and opinion. It is not official legal or medical advice. Veterans are encouraged to consult with a VA-accredited representative or healthcare provider regarding their specific claims.
