It’s important to understand the difference between a Nexus letter and a personal statement.
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A personal statement is written by you, the veteran. It’s your story—how your condition began during service, how it affects your life now, and any evidence you’ve found to support your claim.
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However, you are not a licensed medical professional. The VA is legally required to give more weight to medical opinions than to personal statements. Your statement helps provide context—but it does not meet the requirement for medical evidence.
The Problem With Nexus Letter Templates
Some individuals loudly condemn “claim sharks”—yet turn around and sell you generic Nexus letter templates. That’s hypocrisy at its worst.
These templates often lack:
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Professional credentials
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Evidence of record review
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Medical rationale
They’re just cookie-cutter forms being handed out for a profit. When your claim is denied, these sellers vanish. We’ve heard from countless veterans in this situation—left high and dry after putting their trust (and money) into bad advice.
Reminder: A Nexus letter filled out by you is not a medical opinion. It’s a personal statement—plain and simple.
How to Get a Real Nexus Letter (the Right Way)
Here’s how to do it properly:
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Work with a licensed medical provider.
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Ensure they review your records and state that clearly in the letter.
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Confirm the letter includes a clear diagnosis.
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Most importantly, the provider must include a strong medical opinion supported by detailed rationale.
This rationale should tie your service events to your current diagnosis using:
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Your medical records
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Known risk factors
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Accepted medical science
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The provider’s own expertise
Without all these elements, your Nexus letter is likely to be rejected—and your claim denied.
Final Thoughts: Know the Difference, Protect Your Claim
If you’re serious about getting your VA claim approved, it’s absolutely essential to understand:
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The difference between a personal statement and a true Nexus letter
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What the VA is actually looking for
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Who you can trust—and who’s just trying to make a quick buck
Don’t let bad advice or junk templates jeopardize your benefits. Get informed, get professional help, and give your claim the best possible shot at success.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on the author’s opinion and experience with the VA claims process. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Always consult with qualified professionals when preparing or submitting a VA disability claim.
Have questions or experiences with Nexus letters? Drop a comment below or share your story—we’re here to help each other through it.
