How to Complete VA Form 21-0781: A Step-by-Step Guide for Veterans Filing PTSD Claims 

Posted by Berry Law on February 21, 2025 in Veterans Appeals

Why VA Form 21-0781 Matters for PTSD Claims 

Filing a VA disability claim for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) requires Veterans to document the in-service event, or stressor, that led to their condition. The VA Form 21-0781, Statement in Support of Claim for Service Connection for PTSD, helps the VA evaluate a Veteran’s PTSD claim by providing essential details about how and when the traumatic event occurred. 

Many PTSD claims are delayed or denied due to incomplete or vague stressor statements on Form 21-0781. This guide breaks down each section of the form, offering step-by-step instructions to help Veterans complete it correctly and strengthen their PTSD claims. 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Completing VA Form 21-0781 

Section 1: Veteran Information 

This section requires basic identifying details, including: 

1. Full name (as it appears on military records) 

2. Social Security Number (SSN) 

3. VA file number (if applicable) 

4. Date of birth 

5. Veteran’s service number (if applicable) 

6. Telephone number 

7. Email address 

Tip: Double-check that your information matches your VA records to prevent processing delays. 

Section 2: Stressor/Traumatic Event(s) Description 

This is the most critical section of the form. Veterans must clearly describe the event(s) that caused their PTSD. The VA looks for specific details, including: 

• A detailed account of what happened 

• Names of others involved can be used (fellow service members, units, or commanding officers); the VA will not contact them and it’s not required. 

• How the event impacted your mental health 

• Date and location of the event (or an approximate time frame if exact dates are unknown) 

Example of a Strong Stressor Statement: 

“On March 5, 2007, while serving with the 3rd Infantry Division in Baghdad, Iraq, my convoy was ambushed. An improvised explosive device (IED) detonated near my vehicle, injuring several team members. I witnessed my squad leader sustain life-threatening injuries. Since that event, I have suffered from persistent nightmares, anxiety, and hypervigilance, affecting my daily life and ability to work.” 

Common Mistakes to Avoid: 

• Vague Statements: “I had a bad experience in combat.” 

• Lack of Specifics: “I was in Iraq, and it was stressful.” 

If a Veteran experienced multiple stressor events, they should list each incident separately. 

Section 3: Additional Information Associated With the Event 

Veterans should include any additional details that may help the VA verify the stressor event. This may include: 

• Names of fellow service members who were present 

• Unit details (battalion, brigade, squad, etc.) 

• After-action reports or military police records (if available) 

• Statements from fellow service members (also known as “buddy statements”) 

• Legal or disciplinary actions 

• Drug or alcohol use 

If possible, Veterans should obtain written statements from witnesses who can confirm the details of the stressor event. 

Section 4: Treatment Information 

In this section, Veterans should list any treatment received for PTSD related to the stressor events described. This includes: 

• Names of healthcare providers or facilities 

• Dates of treatment 

• Types of therapy or counseling received 

Tip: If treatment was provided at a VA medical center, include the facility name and approximate dates to help the VA locate your records. 

Section 5: Additional Remarks 

This section allows Veterans to elaborate on previous responses or provide any additional details relevant to their PTSD claim. Veterans can use this space to: 

• Clarify details about the stressor event 

• Explain how PTSD symptoms have worsened over time 

• Provide additional supporting evidence 

Tip: If additional space is needed, Veterans may attach extra pages with their name and SSN on each sheet. 

Section 6: VBA Notification to VHA (For MST Claims Only) 

This section only applies to Veterans who checked “personal traumatic event(s) (involving MST)” in Section 2. By selecting “Yes,” Veterans allow the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) to notify the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) about the claim. 

This helps the VA coordinate mental health care and support services for Veterans with Military Sexual Trauma (MST)-related PTSD claims. 

If this does not apply, simply leave this section blank. 

Section 7: Veteran’s Signature and Certification 

This final section requires a signature to certify that the information provided is accurate. 

Important: Unsigned forms will not be processed, so double-check before submitting. 

What to Do After Completing VA Form 21-0781 

Once completed, Veterans can submit VA Form 21-0781: 

• Online: Through the VA’s eBenefits portal 

• By Mail: To the nearest VA Regional Office 

• In Person: At a local VA facility 

• With Assistance: Through a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or attorney 

Why VA Form 21-0781 is Critical for PTSD Claims 

VA Form 21-0781 plays a key role in PTSD disability claims, serving as the primary method of documenting stressor events for Veterans who do not have automatic service connection for PTSD. 

Filing an incomplete or vague form can result in delays or denials—but with accurate information, strong supporting evidence, and legal assistance if needed, Veterans can improve their chances of receiving the benefits they have earned. 

Need help with a PTSD claim? Contact Berry Law today for a free case review. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

1. Who should complete VA Form 21-0781? 

Any Veteran filing a PTSD claim should complete VA Form 21-0781.  

2. What if I don’t remember the exact date of the stressor event? 

Veterans should provide the most accurate timeframe possible and include details such as unit, location, and names of others involved to help the VA verify the event. 

3. Can I submit multiple stressor events? 

Yes, Veterans can list multiple incidents on separate sheets of paper if necessary. 

4. What if I need help completing VA Form 21-0781? 

Veterans can seek assistance from a VA disability attorney, a Veterans Service Officer (VSO), or a VA-accredited claims representative to ensure the form is properly completed. 

5. What happens if my PTSD claim is denied? 

A VA disability attorney can help file an appeal, obtain additional evidence, and represent Veterans in the Board of Veterans’ Appeals (BVA) process.