Learn About Your Veteran Benefits

If you have a service-connected condition as determined by a VA decision, you may be eligible for VA disability benefits. The VA defines a service-connected condition as an illness or injury that was caused by or made worse by your military service. 

To qualify for VA benefits for prostate cancer, a Veteran must have a diagnosis from a VA or qualified private medical provider. The VA then assesses whether the cancer is linked to military service, with certain exposures like Agent Orange or burn pits in Iraq or Afghanistan leading to a Presumptive Condition classification, indicating the VA presumes the condition resulted from service. 

The VA reviews medical evidence to make a rating decision. Once a decision is made, the Veteran is notified and if eligible, will receive related compensation. Regardless of one’s rating decision, a VA-eligible Veteran can receive medical care at a VA facility for prostate cancer.

Because this process may be lengthy, you can submit an Intent to File with the VA so any benefits you may receive would be retroactive to when you submitted the Intent to File. Many Veteran Service Organizations such as the American Legion, VFW, and Disabled American Veterans (DAV), have trained Veteran Service Officers that can assist you with the process.

All cancer diagnoses resulting in service connection start at a temporary 100% evaluation, as prescribed by law. Service-connected cancer in remission is evaluated at 0% (see 38 CFR § 3.105e).

If a qualified medical provider diagnoses prostate cancer in remission, the service-connected rating is reduced to 0%. The Veteran is notified in writing, and the reduction takes effect no sooner than 60 days after the notification. This change does not impact the rating evaluation of any secondary conditions, or residuals, resulting from the cancer or its treatments.

Any diagnosed condition that was caused by or aggravated by the prostate cancer and/or, an operation or treatment done because of prostate cancer are considered residuals of the cancer treatment. Examples include urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction.

The Veteran may request an exam and/or provide other evidence to refute the diagnosis of remission and evaluate potential residuals. 

Yes, you have the right to appeal a VA decision. 

You can reach out directly to a VA representative with your questions online via ask.va.gov or call 1- 800-827-1000. 

To get additional expert advice regarding your VA disability claims, Veterans Service Organizations (VSO) around the country, such as the VFW, American Legion, and DAV, stand ready to assist, whether you need to file a new claim or help you appeal a decision. To find an accredited VSO near you, check out va.gov/vso.