Veteran Disability Benefits
Sexual Trauma
If while serving on active duty you were the victim of a personal assault or sexual trauma, you could be entitled to receive disability compensation from the VA.
Explanation
The VA defines sexual trauma as lingering physical, emotional, or psychological symptoms resulting from a physical assault of a sexual nature or battery of a sexual nature. Examples of physical assault or battery of a sexual nature are:
- Rape
- Physical assault
- Domestic battering
- Stalking
Many victims of sexual assault suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which is a recurrent emotional reaction to a traumatic event, such as sexual assault. In many cases, victims don’t realize they are suffering from the disorder. Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder are:
- Sleep disturbances and nightmares
- Emotional instability
- Feelings of fear and anxiety
- Impaired concentration
- Flashbacks
- Problems in intimate and other interpersonal relations
Eligibility
If you are a victim of sexual trauma, you could be eligible to receive disability compensation. In order to be eligible:
- the trauma or assault must have occurred while you were on Active Duty.
- you must be suffering from disabling symptoms.
- you cannot have been dishonorably discharged.
Apply
Complete VA Form 21-526 and turn it in to your VA regional office. One of the office’s counselors or the Women Veterans Coordinator can assist you if you need help.
