Claiming Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Secondary to Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
How to file a VA disability claim for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome as a secondary condition to your service-connected Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. This guide covers the medical nexus, evidence requirements, and how a secondary claim can increase your combined rating.
This is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with a VSO or accredited claims agent.
Medical Nexus: Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma → Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
NEXUS STRENGTH
moderate
COMMONLY GRANTED
Varies
CLAIM TYPE
Secondary
What is a Secondary VA Disability Claim?
A secondary condition is a disability that was caused or aggravated by a service-connected condition. Under 38 CFR § 3.310, the VA will grant service connection for a secondary condition if you can show a medical relationship (nexus) between your already service-connected condition and the new condition.
In this case, you would claim that your service-connected Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma caused or worsened your Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Secondary claims are one of the most effective ways to increase your combined VA disability rating and monthly compensation.
How Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma Leads to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Primary Condition: Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Common symptoms:
Secondary Condition: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Common symptoms:
Evidence Needed for This Secondary Claim
1. Nexus Letter (Most Important)
Get a medical opinion letter from a doctor stating that your Chronic Fatigue Syndromeis "at least as likely as not" caused by or aggravated by your service-connected Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. This is the most critical piece of evidence for a secondary claim.
2. Current Diagnosis
Medical records showing a current diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. VA treatment records, private medical records, or a current exam will work.
3. Service-Connected Primary Condition
You must already have Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma rated as service-connected. If not, file for that first or file both claims simultaneously.
4. Personal Statement
A detailed statement (VA Form 21-4138) describing how your Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma symptoms led to or worsened your Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Include specific examples of how both conditions affect your daily life.
How This Affects Your Compensation
If granted, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome as a secondary condition will increase your combined VA disability rating using VA math. Here are 2026 monthly rates by rating:
30% Rating
$552.47
/month
50% Rating
$1,132.90
/month
70% Rating
$1,808.45
/month
Other Conditions Secondary to Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
File Your Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Secondary Claim
Use our free Claims Builder to organize your Chronic Fatigue Syndrome evidence, link it to your Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma claim, and prepare for your C&P exam.