Toxic Exposure & Presumptive Conditions
Jet Fuel & Petroleum Exposure (JP-8) — VA Claims
Jet fuels and petroleum products (JP-4, JP-5, JP-8) exposed flight-line crews, fuel handlers, and maintainers to benzene and other toxins linked to blood disorders and cancers.
Who's covered
VA recognizes exposure for service in these locations and time periods:
Jet Fuel / Petroleum (JP-4, JP-5, JP-8)
JP-4, JP-5, JP-8 jet fuel exposure for POL specialists, aircraft fuelers, mechanics, boom operators.
See your conditions and what they rate, then build your combined rating — open the free calculator →
What you need to file
- DD-214 — Service period and MOS/rating
- Personnel records — Confirms POL/fuels/mechanic role
- Medical diagnosis + nexus letter — VA decides case-by-case
How to file
File a disability claim for your diagnosed condition and note the exposure. The usual path: lock your date with an Intent to File, get a current diagnosis, gather your service records, and prepare for your C&P exam. If service connection isn't obvious, a nexus letter can help.
Legal authority & sources
VA Public Health Petroleum (publichealth.va.gov/exposures/petroleum)
See every benefit you've earned — free
VA Ready checks your rating against state and federal benefits for all 50 states, builds your combined rating with real VA math, and walks you through filing. No account required.
With ProGet your full Benefits & Exposure Profile PDF, every-state lookups, and the complete criteria for all 755 conditions.
More from VA Ready: all toxic exposures · ratings by condition · pay rates
Common questions
What conditions are presumptive for Jet Fuel & Petroleum Exposure?
VA evaluates Jet Fuel & Petroleum Exposure claims based on documented exposure and a current diagnosis.
Who qualifies for Jet Fuel & Petroleum Exposure benefits?
You generally need qualifying service in a recognized location and time period (listed above), a current diagnosis, and a discharge that isn't dishonorable.
How do I file an exposure claim?
File a disability claim listing your condition and exposure. Start with an Intent to File to lock your effective date, get a current diagnosis, and bring your service records. The VA Ready app and guides walk you through each step.
Presumptive conditions, eligible locations, and dates are summarized from VA.gov and the cited authorities and can change. Always confirm current eligibility at VA.gov or with a VA-accredited representative. VA Ready is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and this page is not legal or medical advice.