Nexus Letter Samples: Strengthen Your VA Disability Claim

Understanding the Power of a Nexus Letter

A nexus letter, also known as an independent medical opinion, is a crucial piece of evidence in a Veteran’s Affairs (VA) disability claim. It’s a statement from a qualified medical professional that establishes a clear link, or nexus, between your current medical condition and your military service. Without a strong nexus, your claim may be denied, even if you have a diagnosed condition and documented service records. The more specific and detailed the letter, the better your chances of a successful claim.

What Makes a Good Nexus Letter?

A strong nexus letter should be written by a medical professional familiar with your medical history, service records, and the relevant medical literature. It needs to explicitly state the professional’s opinion that it is “at least as likely as not” (a 50% probability) that your current condition is connected to your military service. The letter should also provide a reasoned explanation for this opinion, citing specific medical records, service events, and relevant scientific studies that support the connection. Avoid vague language and ensure the doctor clearly outlines the link between your service and your disability.

10 Sample Nexus Letter Excerpts

Below are examples of excerpts demonstrating the types of information and phrasing used in a nexus letter. These examples are for informational purposes only and should not be used without consulting with a qualified medical professional.

1. “It is my professional opinion that Mr. Smith’s chronic back pain is at least as likely as not due to the heavy lifting and sustained physical exertion he experienced during his time in the U.S. Army from 2010 to 2014. Review of his service records shows…”
2. “Based on my review of Ms. Jones’ medical history, coupled with her service records indicating repeated exposure to loud noises during her time in the Navy, I believe her tinnitus is more likely than not related to her military service.”
3. “After careful consideration of Mr. Davis’ documented PTSD diagnosis and his detailed description of combat experiences in Iraq, I conclude that his PTSD is directly related to his experiences during his military service.”
4. “Reviewing the provided medical documentation and service records, it’s my assessment that the Veteran’s current knee injury is a direct result of repetitive stress sustained during active duty.”
5. “I have reviewed the service records and medical documentation provided. It is my medical opinion, based on a reasonable degree of medical certainty, that the veteran’s current GERD is proximately caused by the prolonged stress and irregular eating habits he experienced during his service. Specifically…”
6. “It is my medical opinion that Mr. Johnson’s sleep apnea is secondary to his weight gain, which was exacerbated by the sedentary nature of his desk job in the Army. His initial weight gain started shortly after…”
7. “Given the proximity of the Veteran’s back injury to the known event described in his service record of him falling from a vehicle, I conclude this is the direct cause of his current condition.”
8. “I have reviewed the service records and medical documentation provided by the Veteran. In my professional medical opinion, his current depressive disorder is a direct consequence of the stressful events he experienced while in active duty.”
9. “Based on my clinical knowledge and after review of documentation presented to me, it is my opinion that the Veteran’s migraines are more likely than not a service-connected disability due to exposure to toxins while on active duty.”
10. “The Veteran’s documented anxiety disorder developed shortly after his discharge. Given that his military service involved frequent relocations and deployments, it is my professional opinion that his anxiety disorder is at least as likely as not service-connected.”