Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Claims – VA Help for Affected Veterans

Between 1953 and 1987, U.S. Marines, their families, and civilian staff stationed at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina were exposed to contaminated water containing hazardous chemicals at levels up to 3,400 times above safe limits. This exposure has been linked to serious health problems, prompting federal legislation and VA benefits support. 8

What Caused the Contamination?

Chemicals including TCE, PCE, benzene, vinyl chloride, and others contaminated drinking water wells at Hadnot Point and Tarawa Terrace. The contamination was confirmed by federal agencies in the early 1980s, with impacts traced back to faulty industrial and base activities. 9

Who Is Eligible for VA Benefits?

If you served (or lived) on base for at least 30 cumulative days between August 1, 1953 and December 31, 1987, you may be eligible for VA disability compensation and health care benefits. A dishonorable discharge will disqualify eligibility. 10

Presumptive Conditions Covered by VA

• Adult leukemia
• Aplastic anemia / other myelodysplastic syndromes
• Bladder cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Liver cancer
• Multiple myeloma
• Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• Parkinson’s disease

These conditions are "presumed" to be service-connected if the service and exposure criteria are met — meaning no need to prove causation. 11

Other Health Conditions Possibly Eligible

VA also provides care or reimbursement for additional ailments linked to Camp Lejeune exposure, including neurobehavioral effects, scleroderma, hepatic steatosis, female infertility, miscarriage, renal toxicity, and more. Evidence or medical opinions may be required for conditions not on the presumptive list. 12

Pact Act & Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022

The PACT Act signed in August 2022 includes the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, allowing eligible veterans, family members, and civilian workers to file legal claims for compensation—even beyond VA benefits. This law lets you pursue damages for contamination-related harm. 13

Elective Settlement Option & Current Status

A voluntary process called the “Elective Option” allows faster settlement payouts based on illness and duration of exposure. Claim tiers range from $100,000 to $450,000. However, as of early 2025, only a few hundred claims have been settled out of more than 500,000 filed. Many veterans wait months or years for resolution. 14

How to File a VA Claim

1. Verify you served or lived at Camp Lejeune/MCAS New River for ≥30 days (1953‑1987).
2. Obtain medical records showing one of the prescriptive conditions.
3. File VA Form 21‑0966 (Camp Lejeune water exposure) or VA Form 21‑526EZ (for disability).
4. Submit online via VA.gov or through a VSO.

Even if denied initially, appeals are possible with nexus letters or buddy statements. Claim denials can be common but reconsideration and appeals may succeed. 15

📢 Know Your Rights as a Veteran

Veterans and residents exposed to Camp Lejeune water may be eligible for VA health care, disability benefits, and even legal settlements. Visit VA.gov or speak with a Veteran Service Officer (VSO) for further guidance.

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⚠ Why Act Now?

Time limits apply. Many claimants face delays or denials, and fewer than 500 of the half-million filed claims have been settled by mid-2025. Prompt action improves chances of approval and timely benefits. 16

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Content does not constitute legal advice. For official eligibility and claims information, consult VA.gov or a certified VSO.