Veterans who served at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, between 1953 and 1987, were exposed to toxic chemicals through contaminated water on the base. These chemicals, which included trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), benzene, and vinyl chloride, have been linked to serious health conditions, including several forms of cancer, neurological disorders, and other life-threatening diseases.
For decades, veterans and their families struggled to prove the connection between their time at Camp Lejeune and their illnesses. But recent legislation, including the Camp Lejeune Justice Act and updated VA policies, has made it easier for veterans to receive compensation for the conditions caused by toxic exposure. In this blog, we’ll cover what you need to know about filing a claim for VA benefits, common mistakes to avoid, and how to maximize your chances of success.
Understanding Camp Lejeune Toxic Exposure
The contaminated water at Camp Lejeune contained dangerous chemicals that were used in industrial degreasing and dry cleaning. Veterans who lived, worked, or were stationed at the base—and even some family members—were unknowingly exposed to these chemicals through drinking water and other daily activities.
The VA recognizes the following conditions as presumptively service-connected for veterans exposed to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune:
- Adult leukemia
- Bladder cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Liver cancer
- Multiple myeloma
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Parkinson’s disease
- Aplastic anemia and other myelodysplastic syndromes
If you were stationed at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 cumulative days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, and have been diagnosed with one of these conditions, the VA presumes that your illness is related to your service. This means you don’t need to prove the connection between the contamination and your disease—the VA automatically assumes it.
Common Misconceptions About Camp Lejeune Claims
Many veterans and their families are still unsure about their eligibility for Camp Lejeune-related benefits or believe they don’t qualify due to common myths. Here are a few misconceptions that might prevent veterans from receiving the benefits they deserve:
- Myth 1: Only veterans who lived on base qualify for benefits.
Reality: Veterans, family members, civilian workers, and others who spent at least 30 days at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987 may qualify for benefits if they were diagnosed with one of the presumptive conditions. Family members may be eligible for healthcare benefits as well, even if they were not service members. - Myth 2: You must have been diagnosed with a presumptive condition during your time at Camp Lejeune.
Reality: Many of the conditions linked to Camp Lejeune’s water contamination, such as cancer, may take years or even decades to develop. As long as your diagnosis comes after your time at the base and you meet the other criteria, you can still qualify for benefits. - Myth 3: Only cancers are covered by VA benefits for Camp Lejeune exposure.
Reality: While many of the recognized presumptive conditions are cancers, the VA also covers non-cancerous illnesses like Parkinson’s disease, aplastic anemia, and other serious blood disorders.
Steps to Filing a VA Claim for Camp Lejeune Toxic Exposure
Filing a claim for benefits related to Camp Lejeune exposure requires careful documentation and adherence to the VA’s procedures. While the presumption of service connection simplifies part of the process, it’s still essential to follow these steps to ensure your claim is successful:
- Confirm Your Eligibility First, verify that you were stationed at or lived on Camp Lejeune for at least 30 cumulative days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987. This includes active-duty service members, reservists, National Guard members, and their families who lived on base. If you meet this criterion, you are eligible to file a claim for benefits related to the presumptive conditions.
- Obtain a Diagnosis To file a claim, you need a confirmed diagnosis of one of the VA’s recognized presumptive conditions. Make sure your medical records clearly state your diagnosis, and include any relevant test results or doctor’s notes. If you’re filing for a family member, you’ll need their medical records as well.
- Gather Military and Service Records The VA requires documentation proving your service at Camp Lejeune during the specified time period. Your DD-214 or other official military records can verify your time spent on the base. If you are filing for a family member who lived at Camp Lejeune, gather any documentation that shows their residency, such as housing records or base-related documents.
- Submit Your Claim Once you have your diagnosis and military records, file your claim through the VA.gov portal, by mail, or in person at a VA Regional Office. Make sure to include:
- Your diagnosis and medical records.
- Service records confirming your time at Camp Lejeune.
- Any supporting documents, such as a nexus letter from your doctor if needed.
- Prepare for a C&P Exam (if required) In some cases, the VA may request a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam to evaluate your condition. This exam helps determine the severity of your illness and your disability rating. Be honest and thorough during the exam, detailing how your condition affects your daily life, work, and physical capabilities.
Common Mistakes Veterans Make When Filing for Camp Lejeune Benefits
Veterans often encounter roadblocks when filing for VA benefits, even when they qualify under the presumptive conditions. Here are some of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Not providing sufficient medical evidence: While the VA presumes the service connection for Camp Lejeune-related conditions, you still need to provide medical records that confirm your diagnosis. Failing to include detailed documentation can delay your claim or result in a denial.
- Missing out on secondary claims: Many veterans and their families don’t realize that they can file for secondary conditions caused by their primary illness. For example, a veteran with bladder cancer may develop a secondary condition, such as kidney failure, due to treatments or the disease’s progression. Make sure to file for secondary claims to receive the maximum benefits.
- Overlooking healthcare benefits for family members: Family members who lived at Camp Lejeune may be eligible for healthcare benefits, even if they aren’t veterans. If your family has been affected by the contaminated water, ensure they also file claims for medical care and reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses related to their illness.
Setting Your Claim Up for Success: Practical Tips and Real Advice
To increase your chances of receiving benefits for toxic exposure at Camp Lejeune, follow these actionable tips:
- Keep Comprehensive Medical Records: Your medical records should include all relevant test results, diagnosis information, treatment history, and details of any ongoing health issues. The more complete your records, the easier it will be for the VA to process your claim.
- File for Secondary Conditions: Don’t overlook secondary conditions that develop as a result of your primary illness. Make sure to include documentation that links these secondary conditions to your service-related disease.
- Document Family Member Claims: If you’re filing on behalf of a family member who was exposed to Camp Lejeune’s water contamination, make sure their medical records, residency information, and treatment history are thoroughly documented. Family members are often eligible for VA healthcare benefits, but claims need to be supported by detailed evidence.
- Stay on Top of Deadlines: Filing for benefits can be a lengthy process, and missing deadlines can set you back significantly. Always respond promptly to VA requests for information, and regularly check the status of your claim online to ensure it’s progressing.
Why Hiring an Experienced Disability Firm Like DLG Is Crucial
Filing for VA benefits related to Camp Lejeune toxic exposure can be complex, and many veterans face challenges even when they qualify under presumptive conditions. Working with an experienced law firm like Disability Law Group (DLG) can help you avoid common pitfalls, gather the necessary evidence, and navigate the claims process with confidence.
At Disability Law Group, we specialize in helping veterans secure compensation for toxic exposures, including those affected by Camp Lejeune contamination. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that veterans and their families receive the full benefits they deserve, whether it’s filing a new claim, appealing a denial, or seeking an increase in disability ratings. Let us handle the details, so you can focus on your health and well-being.
