Presumption of Service Connection Definition

A presumption of service connection is when VA presumes a veteran’s condition was caused by their military service, usually due to a certain exposure.  The presumption of service connection removes the requirement that veterans provide a medical nexus linking their condition to their military service.  Instead, if a veteran served in certain qualifying time periods and locations and has a condition associated with exposure, VA will presume the veteran’s in-service exposure caused his or her condition.  The presumption of service connection may apply to the following groups of veterans:

• Veterans exposed to herbicide agents, such as Agent Orange
• Gulf War Veterans
• Former Prisoners of War (POWs)
• Atomic Veterans (Ionizing Radiation Exposure)