VA Disability Glossary – Key Terms Every Veteran Should Know

Toxic Exposure Risk Activity (TERA)

  • A Toxic Exposure Risk Activity (TERA) is an official designation used by the VA to identify military duties or environments where service members may have been exposed to hazardous substances, such as burn pits, radiation, chemicals, or contaminated water.

    TERA designations are part of the PACT Act’s implementation and are used to help determine eligibility for toxic exposure-related benefits.

    • If a veteran participated in a TERA, they may be presumed to have been exposed to toxins

    • This can support faster and easier service connection for conditions like:

      • Certain cancers (e.g., brain, kidney, respiratory)

      • Chronic bronchitis, asthma, sinusitis, and more

    • Helps reduce the burden of proof: veterans do not have to show exactly how they were exposed

    Note: Not all locations or duties are considered TERA. Eligibility depends on the veteran’s service record and specific assignment.

    • Air Pollutants: Exposure to burn pits, sand, dust, oil well fires, and sulfur fires

    • Chemicals: Pesticides, herbicides, depleted uranium, and contaminated water

    • Occupational Hazards: Asbestos, industrial solvents, lead, and firefighting foams

    • Radiation: Nuclear weapons handling, radioactive material, and X-rays

    • Warfare Agents: Nerve agents, chemical and biological weapons

    Note: These are common examples. The list of recognized TERA situations may grow as more information becomes available.

    • Mention your participation in a TERA when filing a VA disability claim

    • Provide your military occupational specialty, duty location, and timeframe

    • Include any supporting evidence such as service records or statements from others who served with you

    • Work with a VA-accredited representative to ensure your exposure is properly documented

  • At Greene & Marusak, we help veterans identify and document TERA-related exposure, build strong claims, and fight unjust denials. If you believe your military duties put you at risk of toxic exposure, our team is here to help you.

    Give us a call at (844) 483-8737

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