Serving in the military often leaves lasting marks on a person’s health and well-being. If you developed an illness or injury tied to your time in uniform, you may expect that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will recognize that and provide disability benefits. Unfortunately, many Veterans in Beckley and elsewhere receive denials because the VA claims there is not enough “in-service evidence” to prove the condition is related to their service.
This can be incredibly frustrating—especially when you know your health problems started while serving. Understanding what the VA looks for and how to build a more substantial claim can make a big difference in getting the benefits you deserve. Call our VA benefits denial attorneys right away.
The VA requires Veterans to show three main elements to qualify for disability compensation:
“In-service evidence” refers to documentation that proves something happened while you were on active duty that could have caused or contributed to your current condition. This usually comes from your service treatment records, incident reports, or line-of-duty reports.
If these documents are missing, incomplete, or do not mention your injury or illness, the VA may deny your claim—even if your condition clearly started while you were serving. This can be especially common for Veterans who were discouraged from reporting injuries at the time, or who served in combat zones where medical documentation was not always possible.
A denial does not mean the end of the road. It just means more evidence needs to be provided. There are several ways to build a stronger case, including:
In some cases, it may also be helpful to request your complete military records or personnel file to uncover documents that were overlooked in the initial review. Filing appeals or reopening claims can be overwhelming when you are already coping with a serious medical condition. An attorney who regularly works with VA claims understands the evidence that reviewers are looking for and how to present it effectively.
An attorney can also make sure all deadlines are met, handle communication with the VA, and fight for a fair review of your claim. Having someone on your side who knows the process can relieve stress and improve your chances of success.
Getting a denial because of “lack of in-service evidence” can feel like a setback, but it does not have to be the final word. By gathering additional proof and working with an experienced lawyer, you can build a stronger case and pursue the benefits you earned through your service.
If your claim has been denied, you do not have to face the appeal process alone. An attorney who understands VA rules can help you move forward and work toward the support you deserve.
