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Understanding VA service connection

Compare the manual references for direct, presumptive, and secondary service connection.

These starting points cover different bases for service connection. A label alone does not establish eligibility. Open the relevant reference, read its limits, and check the original VA wording before deciding which questions to raise about your records.

Choose a starting point

  • M21-1 V.ii.2.A

    Direct service connection

    Start with the guidance on direct service connection and an injury incurred in service.

    Official section: Direct Service Connection (SC) and Service Incurrence of an Injury

  • M21-1 V.ii.2.B

    Presumptive service connection

    Browse the general presumptive-service-connection reference.

    Official section: Presumptive Service Connection (SC)

  • M21-1 V.ii.2.D

    Secondary service connection and aggravation

    Find the guidance addressing secondary service connection and aggravation of a non-service-connected disability.

    Official section: Secondary Service Connection (SC) and Aggravation of Non-Service-Connected (NSC) Disabilities

This is a curated selection, not every rule that might apply. References awaiting source or editorial review are omitted.

Browse all three manuals →

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Keep the reference handy as you organize your records and write down questions. Claim Raven can help you work through those questions; it cannot guarantee an outcome or replace an accredited representative.

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You do not need to know a manual citation. Pick a topic to find a curated starting point.

The M21 manuals are VA staff guidance, not a substitute for statutes, regulations, or binding court decisions. Claim Raven is independent of VA. Read the original source and important limits on each reference page.