If you’re a veteran applying for VA disability benefits, one piece of documentation can make or break your case: a nexus letter. While the VA doesn’t require this letter for every claim, having one could prove the link between your current condition and your military service, especially in complex or contested claims.
This blog will explain a nexus letter, what it should include, and how to get one that helps your VA disability claim.
Why It Matters
A nexus letter isn’t just another piece of paper—it can be pivotal in the VA’s decision on whether to approve your claim. Without it, your case might lack the medical evidence to prove service connection. With it, you’re giving the VA a direct, professional opinion that explains why your condition is tied to your service.
This is especially important if you’re filing for benefits related to PTSD, toxic exposure, or conditions that developed after discharge. These claims often lack obvious service records, which makes the nexus letter even more crucial.
What Is a Nexus Letter for a VA Claim?
A nexus letter is a statement from a qualified medical professional explaining how a veteran’s current condition is connected to their military service. It is an independent medical opinion and can be essential to a successful VA claim. In VA terms, “nexus” means connection. To prove a condition is “service-connected,” the VA needs clear medical evidence showing that your disability was caused or worsened by your service. Your claim could be denied without that link, even if you have a serious condition.
Veterans often need a nexus letter when:
- Their condition wasn’t diagnosed until after their service
- Their service treatment records don’t mention the issue
- They’re filing for a secondary condition (like depression from chronic pain)
- The VA denied their claim due to a lack of a medical nexus
A detailed, credible nexus letter can significantly impact these cases. It’s not just paperwork. It’s proof of the connection between your condition and your service.
What Should Be Included in a Strong Nexus Letter?
Not all nexus letters are created equal. A strong letter includes several key components that show the VA that the opinion is professional, credible, and based on solid evidence.
Here’s what to look for when you’re reviewing a nexus letter—or working with a doctor to write one:
The Doctor’s Credentials
The letter should start with a summary of the doctor’s qualifications. This includes their education, certifications, specialty, and experience with similar conditions. A psychiatrist writing a nexus letter for PTSD, for example, should show experience treating trauma-related disorders in veterans.
Review of Medical Records
The provider should note that they’ve reviewed your relevant medical history during and after your service. They don’t need to rewrite your whole history. Still, they should highlight key details supporting the connection between your condition and military experience.
A Current Medical Diagnosis
The VA requires an official diagnosis to approve a claim. A good nexus letter will clearly state your condition and confirm that it’s been diagnosed using appropriate medical standards.
A Clear, Reasoned Opinion
This is the heart of the letter. The provider must explain why they believe your condition is connected to your military service. They should include a medical explanation—not just a blanket statement—and reference anything from medical literature to clinical experience that supports their view.
The Right Language
VA disability claims require specific language in a nexus letter, such as “more likely than not,” “at least as likely as not,” or “less likely than not,” to show how confident the doctor is in the connection to military service. For example, a PTSD nexus letter should state it is “at least as likely as not” that the condition began during or because of service. Without this phrasing, the letter may not support your claim.
These elements help create a nexus letter that the VA can take seriously—one that enhances your claim with medical insight and professional credibility.
How to Request and Submit a Nexus Letter
Now that you know what a good nexus letter looks like, let’s review how to get one.
Step 1: Find the Right Provider
You don’t have to use a VA doctor. Many veterans get stronger nexus letters from private physicians or specialists who are more willing to review records and provide personalized opinions. Look for someone who:
- Has VA disability claim experience
- Understands service-related injuries
- Can provide a clear, documented opinion
Some providers specialize in independent medical opinions, but avoid those making big promises without proper credentials.
Step 2: Provide the Right Information
Once you find a doctor, make it easy for them to write a solid letter. Give them:
- Your DD214 or service records
- Service treatment records (especially those that mention your condition)
- VA denial letters (if applicable)
- Recent medical evaluations or test results
The more context they have, the better they can support your claim.
Step 3: Review the Letter Before You Submit
Before you send the letter to the VA, double-check that it:
- Includes the doctor’s name and contact info
- Uses the correct phrases, such as “at least as likely as not”
- Provides a clear medical explanation
- Cites specific records or timelines
- It is signed and dated
If anything looks vague or incomplete, don’t be afraid to ask the provider to revise it. You want to submit a letter that helps your case, not one that creates more confusion.
Step 4: Submit the Letter to the VA
You can include the nexus letter when applying for benefits or submit it later as additional evidence during an appeal. Include it with all other supporting documents in your claim packet. Submitting the letter electronically through the VA.gov portal can speed up the process. Mailing or faxing is also an option, but make sure to track delivery.
Getting a well-written nexus letter takes effort, but it can significantly affect the outcome of your VA disability claim.
Need Help with Your VA Disability Claim?
If you’re having trouble getting a nexus letter or aren’t sure if yours meets VA standards, VetLaw can help. We focus solely on veterans’ disability benefits and know what the VA looks for. Our team works with veterans to review claims, find missing evidence, and strengthen applications or appeals. Call (336) 355-8387 or complete our contact form to speak with a VA-accredited attorney. You can also browse our complete list of VA disability services to learn how we can support you.
