There is no time limit for filing a claim based on military sexual trauma (MST). The VA accepts claims regardless of how many years have passed, and delayed reporting is common and understood within the MST claims process. Examiners and raters are trained to recognize that shame, fear of retaliation, and power imbalances (such as with a recruiter or superior) often prevent survivors from reporting at the time.
What makes MST claims different from typical PTSD or mental health claims is the evidentiary standard for corroborating the stressor. Because direct evidence (police reports, medical records, witness statements) is often unavailable, 38 CFR 3.304(f)(5) allows the VA to consider "markers" — indirect evidence of behavioral changes around the time of the incident. Examples include record of transfer requests, changes in performance evaluations, substance use, relationship problems, unexplained economic or social behavioral changes, statements from family or friends noticing changes, or personal diaries. A federal case involving the recruiter, even without conviction, could potentially be cited as supporting context, though it is not required and does not need to be the centerpiece of the claim.
Official 2026 VA monthly compensation, including the 2.8% COLA increase.
Dependent add-ons start at a 30% rating. Child-only and dependent-parent rates: see the full 2026 pay chart.
| Rating | Monthly (2026, incl. 2.8% COLA) |
|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 |
| 20% | $356.66 |
| 30% | $552.47 |
| 40% | $795.84 |
| 50% | $1,132.90 |
| 60% | $1,435.02 |
| 70% | $1,808.45 |
| 80% | $2,102.15 |
| 90% | $2,362.30 |
| 100% | $3,938.58 |
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Analyze my claim free →A current diagnosis linking a mental health condition (commonly PTSD, but also depression, anxiety, or other conditions) to the MST stressor is generally necessary. This usually comes from a VA or private mental health provider, often established through a Compensation and Exam (C&P) exam specifically for PTSD secondary to personal trauma.
Most veterans find it worthwhile to work with a VSO (Veterans Service Officer), an accredited claims agent, or attorney experienced in MST claims, and many VA regional offices have designated MST coordinators who can help identify what evidence exists and guide veterans through the process with sensitivity. You are not required to provide an exhaustive blow-by-blow account, but a personal statement describing what happened, how it affected you, and any markers you can recall is typically the core of the claim.
Outcomes vary significantly depending on available evidence and the specific facts, so no one can predict in advance whether a claim will be approved. What is well established is that delayed filing alone does not disqualify a claim, and many veterans do pursue and receive service connection for MST-related conditions long after the incident occurred.
The concrete next step is to contact a VSO or the VA's MST coordinator at a local VA medical center to begin gathering markers and discuss filing a claim, before submitting VA Form 21-526EZ.
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