How to File a Claim for Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Compensation

How to Apply for Camp Lejeune Compensation

Camp Lejeune is a United States Marine Corps base located in North Carolina. It is one of the largest Marine Corps bases in the world, and has a long and storied history. However, in the 1980s and 1990s, it was discovered that the water at Camp Lejeune was contaminated with toxic chemicals, including benzene, trichloroethylene, and perchloroethylene. These chemicals have been linked to a number of health problems, including cancer, birth defects, and miscarriages.

In 2012, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) began a program to compensate veterans who were exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. If you were a Marine who served at Camp Lejeune between 1957 and 1987, you may be eligible for compensation for your health problems.

This article will provide you with an overview of the Camp Lejeune compensation program. We will discuss who is eligible for compensation, what types of health problems are covered, and how to apply for benefits.

We will also provide you with links to resources where you can learn more about the program and get help with your application.

Step	Description	Link
1	Complete the VA Form 21-526EZ	VA Form 21-526EZ
2	Submit the form to the VA Regional Office	VA Regional Offices
3	Wait for a decision from the VA

Eligibility for Camp Lejeune Compensation

The Camp Lejeune Compensation Act of 2022 provides compensation for veterans who were stationed at Camp Lejeune between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, and who developed certain health conditions as a result of exposure to contaminated water.

To be eligible for compensation, you must meet the following criteria:

• You must have been stationed at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987.
• You must have developed one of the following health conditions:
• Chloroform-related cancer
• Liver damage
• Kidney damage
• Multiple myeloma
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
• Parkinson’s disease
• A birth defect

If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can file a claim for compensation with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

What types of injuries are covered?

The Camp Lejeune Compensation Act of 2022 covers the following health conditions:

• Chloroform-related cancer
• Liver damage
• Kidney damage
• Multiple myeloma
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
• Parkinson’s disease
• A birth defect

These health conditions are all linked to exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune.

What evidence do you need to support your claim?

To support your claim for Camp Lejeune compensation, you will need to provide the following evidence:

• A copy of your military records showing that you were stationed at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987.
• A medical diagnosis of one of the health conditions listed above.
• Evidence that your health condition was caused by exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune.

You can provide this evidence by submitting medical records, personal testimony, and other documentation.

The Camp Lejeune Compensation Application Process

The Camp Lejeune Compensation Act of 2022 established a new process for filing claims for compensation. To file a claim, you must submit the following documents to the VA:

• A completed VA Form 21-526EZ, “Application for Benefits for Veterans Exposed to Contaminated Water at Camp Lejeune.”
• A copy of your military records showing that you were stationed at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987.
• A medical diagnosis of one of the health conditions listed above.
• Evidence that your health condition was caused by exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune.

You can submit your claim online at the VA website or by mail.

Once you have submitted your claim, the VA will review your case and make a decision on whether or not to award you compensation. The VA will notify you of its decision in writing.

How long does it take to receive compensation?

The VA will typically take 6-8 months to review your claim and make a decision. However, the process may take longer if your claim is complex or if you need to provide additional information.

If the VA approves your claim, you will receive compensation payments for your eligible health conditions. The amount of compensation you receive will depend on the severity of your condition.

The Camp Lejeune Compensation Act of 2022 provides much-needed compensation for veterans who were injured as a result of exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. If you were stationed at Camp Lejeune between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, and you have developed one of the health conditions listed above, you may be eligible for compensation.

To learn more about the Camp Lejeune Compensation Act of 2022, visit the VA website or contact the VA at 1-800-827-1000.

How To Apply For Camp Lejeune Compensation?

Camp Lejeune is a U.S. Marine Corps base located in North Carolina. It is one of the largest military bases in the world, and has been home to over 1 million Marines and their families since it was established in 1942.

In the 1950s and 1960s, the water supply at Camp Lejeune was contaminated with toxic chemicals, including trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE). These chemicals have been linked to a number of health problems, including cancer, birth defects, and reproductive problems.

In 2012, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) began accepting claims for compensation from veterans and their families who were exposed to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. If you believe that you or a loved one may be eligible for compensation, you should contact the VA to file a claim.

The VA claims process for Camp Lejeune compensation can be complex, so it is important to have a clear understanding of the steps involved.

1. Filing a claim

The first step is to file a claim with the VA. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office.

When you file a claim, you will need to provide the following information:

• Your name, address, and contact information
• Your military service dates
• Your Social Security number
• The names of any family members who may be eligible for compensation
• Any medical records or other evidence that you have of your exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune

2. Preparing your claim

Before you file your claim, it is important to gather as much evidence as possible of your exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. This evidence can include:

• Medical records showing that you have a health condition that is linked to exposure to TCE or PCE
• Military records showing that you were stationed at Camp Lejeune during the time when the water was contaminated
• Personal records, such as letters or diaries, that document your exposure to the contaminated water

The more evidence you can provide, the stronger your claim will be.

3. Filing an appeal

If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. You can appeal your claim by submitting a written appeal to the VA.

When you appeal your claim, you will need to provide the following information:

• The date of the VA’s decision
• The reason for the denial
• The evidence that you believe supports your claim

The VA will review your appeal and make a final decision.

4. Receiving your compensation

If your claim is approved, you will receive compensation from the VA. The amount of compensation you receive will depend on the severity of your health condition and the amount of evidence you can provide.

Compensation for Camp Lejeune-related health conditions can include:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Burial expenses

Resources for Camp Lejeune Compensation Applicants

There are a number of resources available to help you apply for Camp Lejeune compensation. These resources can provide you with information about the claims process, help you gather evidence, and represent you in your appeal.

Legal assistance

If you need help filing a claim for Camp Lejeune compensation, you may want to consider hiring a lawyer. A lawyer can help you understand the claims process, gather evidence, and represent you in your appeal.

The National Veterans Legal Services Program (NVLSP) provides free legal assistance to veterans and their families. NVLSP has a team of lawyers who specialize in Camp Lejeune compensation claims. You can contact NVLSP at 1-800-627-9700 or visit their website at https://www.nvlsp.org.

Support groups

There are a number of support groups available for veterans and their families who are seeking Camp Lejeune compensation. These groups can provide you with emotional support, information about the claims process, and help you find legal assistance.

The Camp Lejeune Justice Network (CLJN) is a national organization that provides support to veterans and their families who are seeking Camp Lejeune compensation. CLJN has a network of local support groups across the country. You can contact CLJN at 1-800-498-9930 or visit their website at https://www.camplejeunejustice.org.

Financial assistance

If you are struggling to pay for medical expenses or other costs related to your Camp Lejeune-related health condition, you may be eligible for financial assistance.

The VA provides a number of financial assistance programs for veterans

How do I apply for Camp Lejeune compensation?

To apply for Camp Lejeune compensation, you must submit a claim to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). You can do this online at va.gov/disability/how-to-apply/ or by mail.

What are the requirements for Camp Lejeune compensation?

To be eligible for Camp Lejeune compensation, you must have served at Camp Lejeune between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987. You must also have a diagnosed condition that is listed as a Camp Lejeune-related illness.

What are the Camp Lejeune-related illnesses?

The Camp Lejeune-related illnesses include:

• Cancer
• Diabetes
• Liver damage
• Multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson’s disease
• Reproductive problems
• Thyroid disease

**How much compensation can I receive for Camp Lejeune-related illnesses?

The amount of compensation you receive will depend on the severity of your condition. You may be eligible for a monthly payment, a lump sum payment, or both.

**How do I get started with my claim?

The first step is to gather your medical records and any other evidence that supports your claim. You can also get help from a veterans service organization.

Once you have gathered your evidence, you can submit your claim to the VA. You can do this online at va.gov/disability/how-to-apply/ or by mail.

**How long will it take for my claim to be processed?

The processing time for a Camp Lejeune compensation claim can vary depending on the complexity of your claim. However, you can expect to receive a decision within 12 months.

**What if my claim is denied?

If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision. You can do this by submitting a written appeal to the VA.

**Where can I get more information about Camp Lejeune compensation?

You can find more information about Camp Lejeune compensation on the VA website at va.gov/camp-lejeune/. You can also contact the VA at 1-800-827-1000.

applying for Camp Lejeune compensation can be a complex process, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you through the process, and the VA is committed to providing you with the benefits you deserve. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact the VA or a Camp Lejeune veterans advocate.