Military Sexual Trauma survivors are applying for their Department of Veterans Affairs benefits at record rates and more of those claims are being completed and granted at historically high levels.
“We recognize the immense courage and strength it takes for MST survivors to come forward and to file a disability compensation claim,” Under Secretary for Benefits Josh Jacobs said during a Dec. 12 press conference. “That’s why we treat all claims, but especially those related to MST, with the utmost respect and seriousness they deserve.”
Assistant Deputy Under Secretary, Field Operations, Kenesha Britton said in Fiscal Year 2024, VA received over 57,400 MST-related claims, an 18 percent uptick from FY23.
“As of November 2024, we’ve already received over 10,700 MST-related claims, a 23 percent increase compared to the same period last year,” she added.
She also noted that over 3,5000 events dedicated solely to MST survivors have been held over the past 14 months.
“Our mission is driven by a commitment to ensure survivors are met with care, dignity and sensitivity throughout the claims process," Britton said.
The VA’s MST claims inventory has grown from 10,300 claims in FY20 to more than 36,000 claims in FY25, according to Britton. The overall grant rate rose to a combined 63.6 percent in FY24, up from 41 percent in FY11.
Jacobs noted that over the past several years, VA has instituted a series of reform measures designed to improve the MST claims process.
“We’re taking action so that every MST survivor knows that help is available now and that they can receive the help and care that they deserve,” said Jacobs.
VA Secretary Denis McDonough also had a message for MST survivors.
“We work for you,” he said. “The benefits and care are yours. We want to make sure you know the benefits and care are here. You should not suffer alone.”
Jacobs said premium discounts are planned for Servicemembers Group Life Insurance which would drop from $30 to $25 per month for $500,0000 worth of coverage. Jacobs said the discount would be maintained for the next five to 10 years, “subject to program experience and market conditions.”
Premium discounts are also being planned for veterans and military spouses covered under the SGLI family of programs, Jacobs said.
“These discounts are expected to take effect between April and July of 2025,” he said.
SGLI insures more than 2 million service members.
Reach Julia LeDoux at Julia@connectingvets.com.