What MST is in VA terms
Military sexual trauma (MST) is the service-connection basis for mental-health conditions (PTSD, anxiety, depression) caused by sexual assault, harassment, or threats during active duty, ACDUTRA, or IDT. A diagnosis from a qualified provider is still required. Most MST claims are filed under DC 9411 (PTSD) but can apply to other mental-health DCs.
Why MST claims have special rules
Most assaults are not reported through official channels at the time, and official military records often do not reflect them. The VA recognizes this. Under 38 CFR § 3.304(f)(5), MST claims have relaxed evidentiary standards that allow alternative evidence to establish the stressor.
Markers: Alternative evidence the VA accepts
If your service treatment records do not document the assault, the VA looks for markers: indirect evidence of behavioral or performance changes around the time. Examples:
- Records of mental-health treatment during service or shortly after.
- Requests for transfer, especially from the unit or location where the assault occurred.
- A drop in performance evaluations (NCOERs, OERs, fitness reports).
- Disciplinary actions that did not exist before, such as Article 15s, counseling statements, or AWOL.
- Substance abuse onset documented in service or shortly after.
- Letters home to family describing distress, without needing to name the event.
- Pregnancy tests, STD treatment, or visits to a chaplain or rape crisis center.
- Sudden changes in social or sexual behavior noted by anyone who served with you.
- A request for a different MOS or duty station following the timeframe.
- Buddy statements describing changes they observed.
You do not need to have reported it
The VA cannot deny an MST claim solely because there is no contemporaneous report. Most assaults go unreported, which is why the standard is relaxed.
What to file
- VA Form 21-526EZ, the main claim form.
- VA Form 21-0781, the mental health stressor statement. VA discontinued Form 21-0781a on June 28, 2024, and MST or personal-assault stressors now go on 21-0781.
- A personal statement describing what happened, when, and your symptoms since. You do not need to relive every detail. Focus on what helps the VA establish credibility and link symptoms.
- Markers evidence as described above.
- A current diagnosis of PTSD, anxiety, depression, or another condition from a qualified provider.
MST coordinator
Every VA Regional Office has an MST coordinator who can help you build the claim. Contact your nearest VARO or call 1-800-827-1000.
Free MST treatment
Every veteran who experienced MST is eligible for free VA mental-health care for MST-related conditions, regardless of discharge status and regardless of whether you ever file a compensation claim. You do not have to prove anything to access treatment. Self-identify when you make the appointment.
Confidentiality
Your MST claim records are tightly restricted within VA systems. They are not shared with non-VA entities, and access within VA is limited.