Can I Establish a Service Connection If I Didn’t Receive Treatment in the Military?

A common concern among Veterans is whether they can obtain VA disability benefits if they did not receive medical treatment for their condition during active duty. It is possible to establish a service connection without in-service treatment records, but doing so requires strong, credible evidence that directly links the current disability to military service.

Building a Solid Service Connection

While in-service medical documentation can strengthen a claim, it isn’t the only path to approval. Veterans can still build a persuasive case by providing a variety of supporting evidence, such as:

• Service records that outline assignments, duties, and any potential exposure to hazards.
• Current medical records confirming the diagnosis, treatment history, and severity of the condition.
• A VA disability nexus letter from a qualified medical professional connecting the condition to the service.
• Lay statements from family members or friends describing when symptoms began and how they have impacted daily life.
• Buddy statements from fellow service members who witnessed the incident or observed symptoms.
• Personnel records that help establish timelines and possible causes for the condition.

In some situations, a claim may involve a presumptive condition, meaning the VA presumes the condition is service-related based on certain exposures or circumstances. While this removes the need to prove a direct connection, the Veteran must still provide proof of the diagnosis and meet the required service criteria.

Navigating the VA Claims Process

The VA disability process can be lengthy and complicated. Claims often fail not because they lack merit, but because of gaps or inconsistencies in the supporting evidence. Every piece of documentation should reinforce the link between service and the disability. Working with an experienced VA disability attorney can make a significant difference. A skilled attorney can:

• Determine the most effective evidence to include.
• Secure detailed medical nexus opinions from trusted professionals.
• Gather and organize service and personnel records.
• Prepare a clear, complete claim that meets VA requirements.

Our Attorneys Can Help Establish a Service-Connection If You Did Not Previously Receive Treatment

At Jan Dils, we’ve helped Veterans secure service connections for decades even when no in-service treatment records could be found. Our team understands the challenges of providing a claim and is committed to guiding veterans through each step of the process.

If you are preparing a VA disability claim or have been denied benefits, contact our VA disability team for a free consultation. We will review your case, develop a tailored strategy and work to secure the benefits you deserve.