Veterans who experience traumatic events during service may qualify for non-taxed disability compensation and free health care, including PTSD treatment.
To receive these benefits, Veterans must demonstrate that their PTSD was caused or worsened by military service, including active duty or training.
The VA also considers post-service claims if PTSD symptoms manifest later, provided the Veterans can prove a service connection.
PTSD is the fourth most common VA disability claim, with over 1.1 million Veterans receiving benefits.
What is PTSD?
PTSD, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, is a lasting reaction to trauma that impacts mental and physical health, social interactions, daily tasks, and work performance.
After trauma, it is normal to feel distress, but persistent symptoms may indicate PTSD.
Approximately 8% of men and 20% of women develop PTSD, with about 30% experiencing chronic symptoms.
PTSD Symptoms
PTSD can cause severe mental and physical symptoms, including:
Mental Health Symptoms:
• Flashbacks and intrusive thoughts.
• Nightmares.
• Severe anxiety.
• Emotional distress.
• Avoidance behaviors.
• Negative mental states (e.g., detachment, guilt).
Physical Symptoms:
• High blood pressure.
• Increased heart rate.
• Fatigue.
• Muscle tension.
• Nausea.
• Joint pain.
PTSD can lead to depression, substance misuse, and severe emotional distress.
How Is PTSD Rated by the VA?
The VA rates PTSD based on disability severity. Factors include reports from mental health caregivers and results from C&P exams.
The VA considers stressful events contributing factors if they involve combat, personal trauma, or life-threatening situations. Symptoms evaluated include:
• Exposure to traumatic events.
• Intrusive symptoms (e.g., flashbacks).
• Avoidance of trauma reminders.
• Negative mental states (e.g., memory loss).
• Hyperarousal states (e.g., irritability, trouble sleeping).
Steps to Making a VA PTSD Claim
• Present a Current PTSD Diagnosis: A medical diagnosis is required for the claim.
• Identify an In-Service Stressor: Provide evidence of a stressor during military service.
• Prove Service Connection: Document details of incidents that caused PTSD.
Exceptions include:
Diagnosis made during service.
Combat engagement.
Fear of hostile military or terrorist activity.
POW experiences.
Evidence of personal assault.
Presumptive Conditions
Presumptive conditions are illnesses the VA assumes are service-connected, such as chronic illnesses appearing within a year after discharge, illnesses from toxic exposures, or POW-related conditions.
Filing Your Disability Benefits Claim
To file a PTSD claim, Veterans must provide medical records, a claim exam report, personal statements, and military records. Forms include:
VA Form 21-0781: For PTSD claims.
VA Form 21-0781a: For PTSD secondary to personal assault.
Compensation & Pension Exam
A C&P exam is often required as part of the disability benefits claim.
Veterans in Crisis: What to Do
If you or someone you know is a Veterans in crisis:
Call 988 or text 838255.
Start a confidential chat online.
For hearing loss, call TTY: 800-799-4889.
Call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room.
Go to the nearest VA medical center.
Understanding these steps and requirements can help Veterans successfully navigate the VA disability claims process and receive the benefits they deserve.
