What is service connection?

Service connection is a legal term of art used in veterans’ disability law in New Jersey. Service connection essentially means that a veteran’s disability is caused, or at least contributed to, by his or her military service. To be eligible for veterans’ disability benefits in New Jersey, a veteran must be able to establish service connection for the disability or condition for which they are seeking benefits. There are two elements to establishing service connection: medical evidence and a nexus or link between the medical evidence and the veteran’s military service. The medical evidence must show that the veteran has a present disability or condition and that the disability or condition was at least partially caused by the veteran’s military service. The nexus or link between the medical evidence and the veteran’s military service must be shown by the veteran’s own statements, service records, medical records, or other evidence. If a veteran is able to establish service connection for a disability or condition, they will typically be eligible for some form of benefits. In New Jersey these benefits may include compensation, rehabilitation, vocational training, medical care, and other forms of assistance. In addition, veterans may be eligible for certain state benefits related to their disability, such as property tax relief.

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