Fact sheet outlines new rule for PTSD claims Published July 14, 2010 WASHINGTON (AFRNS) -- The Veterans Affairs Department has posted a fact sheet including questions and answers about the new rule governing post-traumatic stress disorder claims. This new rule, to be published in the Federal Register, relaxes the evidence requirement of certain PTSD stressor claims by veterans. The fact sheet is available online at www.va.gov/PTSD_QA.pdf. Veterans of any era or conflict can file a claim under the new rule. The rule covers claims received by VA on or after July 13; before July 13, but not yet decided by a VA regional office; and in other specific instances outlined in the fact sheet. "This nation has a solemn obligation to the men and women who have honorably served this country and suffer from the often-devastating emotional wounds of war," Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki said in a statement issued July 12. "This final regulation goes a long way to ensure that veterans receive the benefits and services they need." The new rule relaxes the evidence requirement of certain PTSD stressor claims by veterans.