Quick Answer

Veterans and family members who lived or worked at Camp Lejeune (1953–1987) may qualify for VA disability benefits and free healthcare for 15 presumptive conditions. 2026 guide to eligibility and filing.

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2026 Updated

Camp Lejeune VA Benefits — Contaminated Water Claims

Veterans and their family members who lived or worked at Camp Lejeune between August 1953 and December 1987 may qualify for VA disability compensation, free healthcare, and other benefits for conditions linked to contaminated water exposure.

↗ How to File a Disability Claim
30 days
Minimum Residency for VA Healthcare
1953–1987
Exposure Window
15+
Presumptive Conditions

Who Qualifies

You or a family member must have lived or worked at Camp Lejeune or MCAS New River (North Carolina) for at least 30 days (cumulative) between August 1, 1953 and December 31, 1987. The water supply at these facilities was contaminated with trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), benzene, and vinyl chloride at concentrations far exceeding federal safety standards.

VA Presumptive Conditions (VA Benefits)

The following conditions are presumptively service-connected for veterans who served at Camp Lejeune for 30+ days (1953–1987). No nexus letter required — exposure is presumed.

Free VA Healthcare for Family Members

30+ Days = Free VA Healthcare for Family Members

Family members (spouse, children, parents) who lived at Camp Lejeune for 30+ days during the exposure period are eligible for free VA healthcare for the 15 presumptive conditions. This benefit is available even if the veteran has since passed away. Family members must apply through the VA and provide proof of residency at Camp Lejeune during the exposure period.

Camp Lejeune Justice Act (Civil Litigation)

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 (P.L. 117-168, signed August 10, 2022) allowed veterans and family members to sue the U.S. government in federal court for harm caused by the contaminated water. The 2-year filing deadline for these civil lawsuits was August 10, 2024 — this window is now closed. However, VA disability claims and the free healthcare program remain open with no deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a deadline to file a VA disability claim for Camp Lejeune conditions?

No — VA disability claims for Camp Lejeune presumptive conditions have no specific deadline beyond the general VA claim rules. The civil lawsuit window (Camp Lejeune Justice Act) closed on August 10, 2024, but VA benefit claims remain open. File as soon as possible to maximize your back pay effective date.

Do I need a nexus letter for Camp Lejeune conditions?

No — if your condition is on the presumptive list and you have 30+ days of service at Camp Lejeune during 1953–1987, the VA presumes service connection without requiring a nexus letter. You do need to provide evidence of your time at Camp Lejeune (service records, housing records, orders).

What if my condition isn't on the presumptive list?

You can still file a claim with a nexus letter connecting your condition to Camp Lejeune's specific toxic contaminants (TCE, PCE, benzene, vinyl chloride). The VA evaluates non-presumptive conditions on an individual basis. Working with a VSO or VA-accredited attorney is strongly recommended for non-presumptive conditions.

Related Resources

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