How to Prove Service Connection Through Aggravation in a VA Disability Claim

Not every condition starts during military service, some veterans enter the military with pre-existing conditions. But if that condition worsened because of your time in service, you may still qualify for VA disability benefits through service connection by aggravation.

In this post, we’ll break down how to prove service connection through aggravation, what evidence you’ll need, and how to strengthen your VA claim.

What Is Service Connection Through Aggravation?

This type of service connection applies when a veteran had a condition before entering the military, but that condition was permanently worsened due to their service.

This doesn’t mean the condition simply progressed naturally, you must show that military service made the condition worse beyond its normal course.

Examples of Aggravated Conditions:

• A pre-existing back injury worsened by physical strain during service

• Asthma that became more severe due to exposure to chemicals or burn pits

• Mental health disorders intensified by combat or traumatic experiences

Legal Presumption of Soundness

In most cases, the VA assumes you were in good health when you entered service. This is called the presumption of soundness. However, if a condition was noted during your entrance exam, the presumption doesn’t apply.

To win a claim based on aggravation, you must prove:

1. A pre-existing condition existed

2. The condition was permanently aggravated during active duty

3. The worsening was not due to the natural progression of the disease

   
   

What Evidence Do You Need?

To prove service connection through aggravation, you’ll need:

1. Entrance Medical Exams – Showing the condition existed before service

2. Service Treatment Records – Indicating worsening symptoms during service

3. Post-Service Medical Records – Documenting continued severity

4. A Medical Nexus Letter – A provider must state that the condition was at least as likely as not worsened by service

The VA often denies these claims if there’s no clear documentation — a Nexus Letter can provide the link you need to succeed.

Common Denial Reasons

❌ No proof the condition existed before service

❌ No documentation of worsening during service

❌ VA argues the condition worsened naturally

❌ Missing medical opinion linking aggravation to service

How to Strengthen Your Claim

✔️ Request a copy of your military entrance and exit exams

✔️ Work with a doctor who can compare the severity pre- and post-service

✔️ Submit a Nexus Letter that directly addresses aggravation

✔️ Include lay statements from family or peers who witnessed the decline

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Don’t Overlook Aggravation Claims

Service connection through aggravation can be a powerful path to VA disability benefits, especially if you had a known condition that worsened during your service. The key is building a strong case with the right medical and supporting evidence.

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Need help documenting your case with a professional Nexus Letter or additional medical evidence? We’re here to support your journey.

Start your free eligibility review today.