PACT Act and presumptive conditions

A presumptive condition is one the VA assumes is connected to your service if you meet the service criteria, so you skip proving the link (the nexus). It's the hardest part of a claim, already done for you.

The main exposure categories

• Burn pits / airborne hazards (PACT Act) — post-9/11 and Gulf War era service in covered locations.
• Agent Orange — Vietnam and expanded locations/eras.
• Camp Lejeune contaminated water (1953–1987).
• Gulf War undiagnosed illness / chronic multisymptom illness (Southwest Asia).
• Radiation exposure.

If your service qualifies and you're diagnosed with a listed condition, VA presumes service connection. You still need a current diagnosis. The exact condition lists and qualifying places/dates change, so check the current list at va.gov.