Military Sexual Trauma: How to File a VA Disability Claim
Sexual assault or harassment during military service is called military sexual trauma, or MST. Veterans with conditions linked to MST, such as PTSD, depression or physical injuries, can file a VA disability claim, and VA accepts kinds of evidence that other claims do not because so much MST went unreported. VA also offers free MST-related health care, even without a disability rating. This guide explains both, and how to build a claim.
What happens when you reach out
- You tell us what happenedSend the short form or call. It takes about a minute, and you share only what you are comfortable with.
- A claim specialist reviews itWe look at your deadlines, the insurer or agency involved, and the records your claim will need.
- We call you backUsually the same day, to explain your options. There is no cost and no obligation.
Prefer to talk now? Call (833) 333-0905 or text 954-933-5065.
Talk it through privately
Share only what you are comfortable with. A claim specialist reviews it privately and calls you back, usually the same day.
Legal Lawsuit is not a law firm and is not affiliated with the VA. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship.
On this page
Free MST-related care
VA provides free MST-related care to veterans and most former service members, including those with an Other Than Honorable discharge. You do not need to have reported the MST at the time or have other proof, you do not need a VA disability rating, and the usual length-of-service rules do not apply. Every VA medical facility has an MST coordinator who can help you get care (VA).
Care and the disability claim are separate. You can start care right away and file a claim when you are ready.
The disability claim
If you have a mental or physical health condition linked to MST, VA encourages you to file a disability compensation claim. Every VA regional office has a male and a female MST outreach coordinator who can help with the claim, and you can ask for a male or female examiner for your claim exam (VA).
If an earlier MST-related claim was denied, VA encourages you to request a decision review, noting it has improved specialized training for the people who process these claims.
Evidence VA accepts
For PTSD claims based on an in-service assault, VA's rule says evidence from sources other than service records may corroborate your account, and that evidence of behavior changes after the assault is one type of relevant evidence. VA cannot deny such a claim without first telling you about these alternative sources and giving you a chance to submit them (38 CFR §3.304(f)(5)).
Service treatment and personnel records, military sexual assault or harassment reports, civilian police and medical reports, rape crisis center or counseling records.
Family members, roommates, fellow service members or clergy who saw changes or whom you told.
A request for transfer, a drop in performance, substance use, or anxiety, depression or panic without a clear cause.
Diaries, journals, letters or emails from the time, and a written statement in your own words.
Filing step by step
Get support first
Contact the MST coordinator at your nearest VA medical center, or a Vet Center. Care does not depend on the claim.
Get help with the claim
A VA-accredited representative, including veterans service organizations that help at no cost, or a regional office MST outreach coordinator can help you file.
Gather evidence
Request your service treatment and personnel records, and collect statements, journals and any civilian records.
File the claim
File online, by mail, in person or with a representative, listing each condition you believe is linked to MST.
Attend the claim exam
Request the examiner gender you prefer. Describe your symptoms and how they affect work and daily life.
Review the decision
If the decision is wrong or the rating too low, you can request a decision review.
Why the VA claim is the main path
Service members generally cannot sue the federal government for injuries that arise from their military service, under a 1950 Supreme Court decision known as the Feres doctrine (Feres v. United States). That is why VA disability compensation is the main source of benefits for most MST survivors. Claims against individual civilians or private contractors involved can be different, and a review can check whether any apply.
For civilian sexual abuse claims, see our sexual abuse claims guide.
Common questions
Does it matter how long ago it happened?
No. VA offers MST-related care no matter how long ago the experience occurred, and disability claims can be filed years after service.
I have an Other Than Honorable discharge. Can I still get help?
For MST-related health care, yes in most cases. Eligibility for disability compensation depends on your character of discharge and may require a separate VA determination.
Will my command or anyone else be told?
A VA claim is a matter between you and VA. Talk with a representative about any specific privacy concerns.
Does the claim review cost anything?
No. It is free and confidential.
Related claim guides
More step-by-step guides in this section:
Ready to take a first step?
Call (833) 333-0905, or send the short form when you are ready. A claim specialist will explain your options without pressure.
Legal Lawsuit is an information and claim-review service, not a law firm, and is not affiliated with the Department of Veterans Affairs. It does not provide legal advice. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. VA rules change; confirm current requirements with VA or an accredited representative. Legal Lawsuit and TortAdvisor are under common ownership.
