The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) processes claims for conditions resulting from Military Sexual Trauma (MST). Like all disability claims, you will need to submit paperwork and records that indicate that MST occurred during your service and that your current difficulties resulted from these experiences. If you reported the assault to the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO) or the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) when it occurred using DD Form 2910 (Victim Reporting Preference Statement) or DD Form 2911 (Forensic Medical Report: Sexual Assault Examination) those documents can be used as corroborating evidence of a report of MST.

However, in recognition that it is often difficult to prove that the MST occurred, indirect indicators that the MST occurred are acceptable (e.g., changes in work performance at the time; request for a change in work assignment; increase in healthcare visits).

VA compensation may be awarded even if you did not report the assault or if your perpetrator was never prosecuted. There is no time limit to file a claim. If service connection is granted, you will be assigned a percentage of disability ranging from 0% to 100%.

The Women Veterans Coordinator at the VA's Boston Regional Office can help you through the claims process, including gathering the records to support your claim. You may want to have the help of a veteran service officer from a national service organization in the claims process, such as the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), American Legion or AMVets. They all offer free services.

Contact

Women Veterans Coordinator
Boston Regional Office
800-827-1000

Disabled American Veterans
www.dav.org

American Legion
www.legion.org

AMVets
www.amvets.org