8 Tips for the Best NEXUS Letter

FOR THE VETERAN OF THE VETERAN SHARE OF THE DAY

The nexus is considered to be the hardest aspect to prove a service connection to a veteran’s current disability claim. Without sufficient evidence or a nexus, a veteran’s disability claim will be denied. On the other hand, a well-written nexus letter might be the reason why a Veteran gets their service-connected disability.

Why is it important? A nexus letter is proof of evidence or document from a medical practitioner or professional that is given to a veteran to support their disability claim. A nexus letter explains the veteran’s current medical condition that resulted during their military connection. You can read more about why you need a nexus letter here.

A veteran is not necessarily required to submit a nexus letter, but the nexus letter could create the difference between a denial and an award. Moreover, there is no specific requirement of when the nexus letter could be submitted. A veteran may file a nexus letter with their initial application for their benefits, during claim progress, or after a C&P Exam. However, it is best to submit a nexus letter at the earliest possible date.

Writing the nexus letter

Below are the key things to keep in mind to create a persuasive nexus letter:

Writing a complete and concise nexus letter. Always focus on facts and conclusions.
Ask help from a board-certified medical practitioner or professional.
When choosing your medical practitioner, it’s essential to start with the doctors that are currently or have treated your conditions. It is not mandatory that you choose your doctor, but most of the time, your current physician does have a better understanding of your medical history and disability.
Be sure that the medical practitioner has your relevant medical history records and services access. Remind the doctor that if possible, they need to include in the letter that they have access to your medical records and services.
Independent opinion from the doctor should not be the case. Inform the doctor that they need to confirm whether “it is as least as likely as not” that an event caused the current medical condition during your military service.
Even if it is not required, the current medical practitioner that has recently examined a veteran could add weight to the nexus letter.
The doctor should agree to write the nexus letter is a neutral party. They are supposed to give an honest opinion based on their review of the evidence that is presented to them. It is not necessary that the doctor is required, or obligated, to agree with the point of view of the veteran.
Keep in mind that the physician’s opinions, especially in nexus letters, can be used as a valuable tool for disability claims if done correctly. In writing the nexus, remember to communicate with the doctor’s note with all the details that need to be included in the letter.

For more information on a nexus letter from a PAC, check out this video

COL Mikel J. Burroughs Lt Col Charlie Brown Lt Col John (Jack) Christensen SCPO Morris Ramsey PVT Mark Zehner Sgt (Join to see) SSG Michael Noll SSG Robert Mark Odom CPL Douglas Chrysler PO1 Tony Holland] SPC Mark Huddleston Wayne Soares PO1 John Johnson PO1 William "Chip" Nagel ] SGT (Join to see) TSgt Joe C. SPC Nancy Greene SMSgt David A Asbury LTC Eugene Chu Maj Marty Hogan