Does filing a secondary always trigger an increase request/review of the primary?

No, filing a claim for a secondary condition does **not** automatically trigger a reevaluation or increase request for your primary condition. The VA’s duty to assist, per 38 CFR 3.159(c), is generally limited to the claim filed, which in this case is the secondary condition. The VA is not required to proactively review the primary condition’s rating unless evidence submitted in support of the secondary claim also contains new and material evidence suggesting an increase in the primary condition’s severity, as outlined in 38 CFR 3.156(b). However, you should be aware of the concept of an "inferred claim" established in cases like *Clemons v. Shinseki*, where the VA may have a duty to consider an increase if the evidence *unmistakably* raises that issue. To protect yourself, be explicit: when filing your secondary claim, state in writing that you are **not** claiming an increased evaluation for the primary condition and that any examination should be strictly limited to establishing the secondary link and rating. This helps avoid inadvertently triggering a review that could potentially lead to a reduction, as the VA can only reduce a rating after following the protective procedures under 38 CFR 3.105(e). Your actionable next step is to file the secondary claim with a clear, well-developed medical nexus statement linking it to your primary condition, while explicitly opting out of a review of the primary condition’s current rating in your application statement.

*Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes regarding VA claims processes and is not intended as legal or medical advice. For guidance on your specific claim, consult with an accredited VA attorney or claims agent.*