Does this worksheet tell me if my conditions are connected?

No. Whether one condition is medically linked to another is a medical question, and whether the record meets VA rules is a claims question. This worksheet only organizes records and questions.

What does VA call this kind of claim?

VA describes a secondary claim as a claim for a new disability linked to a service-connected disability you already have, and publishes examples such as arthritis caused by a service-connected knee injury.

Do I need a medical opinion before I use this?

No. The worksheet is for organizing what already exists. What the file still needs is a question for VA or a VA-accredited representative.

Secondary claim worksheet

VA secondary claim evidence organizer

Updated 2026-08-31

This worksheet helps organize the records and questions behind a claim for a condition said to be secondary to a service-connected disability. It does not say whether two conditions are connected and does not predict a VA outcome.

Organized VA claim folders, forms, notes, and a calculator on a desk

Build your secondary claim record list

Select the statements that match your decision letter, claim status, or records. The worksheet returns questions to discuss with VA or a VA-accredited representative.

The decision letter accepts the diagnosis but questions the link to my service-connected disability. The decision letter says the new condition is not diagnosed or not shown in the records. I know which already service-connected disability the new condition is claimed against. There is a claim exam report, DBQ, or medical opinion in the file. I have private medical records that VA may not have received. Someone can describe what they observed about the condition over time. The secondary claim was already denied and I am deciding what comes next.

Select at least one item to build a record list.

How to use this worksheet

Start with the decision letter and the claim status record. Save the claimed condition, the service-connected disability it is claimed against, the reason VA gave, and the evidence VA listed.

The result is a short list for a discussion. It is not legal advice, medical advice, a deadline calculation, or an opinion about whether two conditions are connected.

Official sources

Related guides

VADIS can help organize decision letters, claim status details, and evidence gaps before a review-lane discussion.

Compare VADA services or start intake.

Educational information only. Confirm deadlines, eligibility, and filing strategy with VA or a VA-accredited representative.