This tool provides estimates for educational purposes only. We are not accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs and do not file claims, provide legal advice, or represent veterans before the VA (38 U.S.C. § 5904). For official assistance, contact a VSO, CVSO, or VA-accredited attorney.
Scenario
Vietnam-era veteran who never filed
For: Vietnam-era veteran exploring a first claim decades after service
A path for a veteran who served during the Vietnam era and never filed for VA disability. Agent Orange and other presumptive conditions can apply even decades later, and there is no time bar on filing for service connection.
Check presumptive eligibility
Several conditions are presumed service-connected for Vietnam-era veterans with qualifying service, including a number expanded by the PACT Act. The presumptive decoder helps identify which conditions may apply to your service window and exposure.
Pull your DD-214 and any available service records
A DD-214 documents service dates and locations, which can establish in-country or qualifying service for a presumptive claim. The records guide shows how to request your DD-214 and any treatment records still on file.
Talk to a CVSO before filing
For a complex first claim decades after service, a County Veterans Service Officer can help organize evidence and choose the right filing path. Representation through a CVSO or VSO is free.
File the claim and request any related secondary conditions
A primary presumptive condition can carry secondary conditions (for example, diabetes can be linked to peripheral neuropathy). The secondary condition mapper shows commonly recognized links under 38 CFR § 3.310.
Tools and guides this scenario uses
Last reviewed: 2026-04-25. Scenarios are illustrative. For your own case, work with a County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) or VA-accredited representative.