THE VETERAN’S GUIDE TO SERVICE CONNECTION

THE VETERAN’S GUIDE TO SERVICE CONNECTION

A Beginner’s Guide to Navigating the VA Disability Claims Process

This educational guide was created to help veterans better understand the VA disability claims process, service connection requirements, and the medical evidence often needed to support a strong claim.

Inside this guide, veterans will learn:

• What service connection means

• Important records and documents to gather

• The role of medical evidence

• Lay statements and buddy statements

• Nexus letters and when they may help

• Common reasons claims are denied

• Supplemental claims and Higher-Level Reviews

• Helpful claim preparation tips and resources

This guide is designed to simplify complex information into practical, easy-to-understand educational material for veterans and their families.

Created by:

Kendra Lawrence, MSN, APRN, AGACNP-BC

Veteran Advocate • Claim Support Specialist • Healthcare Professional