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Military sexual trauma claims

MST claims have their own evidence rules. Your decision should reflect them.

Most military sexual trauma is never reported in service, and VA's rules account for that. Free, confidential VA care for MST-related conditions is available whether or not you file a claim. If VA has already decided your claim, ClaimScope reads your decision and records for markers VA may have missed and shows which review lane fits.

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What makes MST claims different

VA has to look beyond the service record.

Special evidence rules

A report is not required

For a PTSD claim based on an in-service assault, evidence from outside service records, and changes in behavior after the event, can help show it happened. VA must tell you about this before it denies.

Read the guide

Markers

Signs in the record

A transfer request, a drop in performance, a pregnancy or STI test, or a statement from a roommate or family member can all be markers. They are often already in the file.

Read the guide

Denials and reviews

A denial is not the last word

VA's Inspector General has found errors in about half or more of the denied MST claims it checked. A Higher-Level Review, Supplemental Claim or Board appeal can ask VA to look again.

Read the guide

Signs VA may have missed something

  • Your denial says there is no evidence the event happened, but does not discuss markers.
  • Your exam did not address changes in behavior, transfer requests or other markers in your records.
  • You never received a letter explaining that evidence from outside the military could help.
  • The decision treats the lack of a report as proof that nothing happened.
  • VA did not ask for private treatment records you told it about.

PTSD and other diagnoses

The special evidence rule in VA's regulation is written for PTSD. For depression, anxiety and other conditions, the standard is still being debated, and a June 2026 National Academies report urged one standard for all MST claims. If your claim is for a diagnosis other than PTSD, the evidence that helps may differ.

If an MST-related issue was part of a VA decision from the last year, ClaimScope shows the review lane and the evidence that fits. If it would be a brand-new claim, we explain the rules for free and point you to free help from a Veterans Service Organization.

Free, confidential support

VA provides free care for mental and physical health conditions related to MST. You do not need a disability rating, and you do not need to have reported the MST. Former service members with an Other Than Honorable discharge, or fewer than two years of service, may still qualify. Every VA medical facility has an MST coordinator, and Vet Centers offer MST-related counseling. Learn about VA MST care.

If you are in crisis, contact the Veterans Crisis Line: dial 988 then press 1, or text 838255. It is free, confidential and available 24/7.

Federal law does not allow fees for help with a brand-new VA claim; accredited Veterans Service Organization representatives help for free. ClaimScope's paid review applies after VA has decided a claim. This page is general information, not legal advice, and does not guarantee any VA decision. Read VA's MST claims guidance.