Making the nexus | Stateside Legal

Meet Jim

Jim Strickland is a Vietnam era Army veteran and nationally recognized expert on VA disability benefits who is also editor and webmaster of the popular VA Watchdog website. Jim writes extensively about VA and Social Security disability benefits. Jim is kind enough to answer questions from visitors on StatesideLegal.org here in Jim's Mailbag.

About Jim's Mailbag

Jim's Mailbag is a regular column where veterans, servicemembers, and family members can find answers about their VA and Social Security disability benefits. Although we are not accepting new questions at this time, you can browse all of the previous Q&As here and search Jim's Mailbag for helpful answers to your specific VA issue.

Question:

I was awarded 70% PTSD with existing 10% for left ankle & leg contusions 48 yrs ago. The examiner stated PTSD at least likely...caused by a crushing leg injury. Can I use the C&P exam statement"Occupational impairment ..such as work" as my evidence for IU, or do I have to show I'm having problems with my ankle/leg to make the nexus? Thank you for your service to us. I salute you, Jim.

Jim's Reply:

I'd go with the statement you have about occupational impairment interfering with work. You could elaborate on that a bit in your own words to support what the examiner said.