What is CBRNE, and how can veterans get VA disability benefits for it?

The acronym CBRNE is short for Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear and Explosives – a grouping of hazardous substances or weapons that can have a negative impact on the health of veterans who have been exposed during service.

Whether during training, deployment, or special operations – there are many common events during military service that can cause accidental exposure to CBRNE materials. The good news is, it's possible to earn service-connection with the right documentation.

Here's what veterans should know about CBRNE and VA disability benefits:

Examples and impacts of CBRNE exposure

These types of specialized exposures can result in both acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) health conditions.

The following are a few common examples of CBRNE exposures:

• Mustard gas

• Nerve agents

• Infectious diseases

• Anthrax

• Mold and other biohazards

• Radioactive materials

• Nuclear exposures

• Explosive devices

CBRNE exposure symptoms can include:

• Skin conditions

• Respiratory conditions

• Neurological disorders

• Mental health complications

• Cancers

Are CBRNE exposures considered presumptive conditions?

No, most CBRNE exposures are not automatically considered presumptive conditions (meaning they would automatically qualify for VA disability benefits without needing to file a claim). Exposures such as Agent Orange and burn pits DO qualify as presumptives, and although you might assume those two fall within the CBRNE umbrella, they're actually specific enough of exposures to have their own category.

So, if you're a veteran who suspects you're dealing with a service-connected condition as a result of another chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or explosive exposure – the process of proving that to the VA will be different for you.

How to prove service-connection for CBRNE exposure related conditions

According to the VA's M21-1, Part VIII, Subpart iii, Chapter 5, Section B – to earn service-connection for a CBRNE exposure, veterans have to participate in a CBRNE test to assess their condition since, according to the VA, "there are no presumptive conditions or disabilities recognized as common."

The rating requirements are as follows:

1. Since CBRNE exposures are considered as TERA participation (toxic exposure risk activities), the rating criteria follows the PACT Act.

2. You have to participate in CBRNE testing in order to receive a rating. Without it, service connection will be denied.

Having objective documentation in your participation is the gold standard, but isn't always possible. Personal statements and lay statements from others who were there can also help establish participation.

We're here to help

If you're unsure of what documents you need for your VA disability benefits claim, we can help. A winning VA disability benefits claim starts with the right documentation. Between Nexus Letters, DBQs, chart reviews, and more – our team is here to assist you in getting what you need to file. Begin by scheduling a chart review, and view other services here. Instead of going it alone, work with one of our professional medical experts to get exactly what you need.