Filing for Dependents and Requirements

Veterans can file for dependent benefits to receive additional monthly compensation for their spouses, children, and parents. This involves providing necessary documentation to the VA, such as proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificates or birth certificates) and, if applicable, evidence of the dependent’s need for support (e.g., medical records for disabled children).

Who Qualifies: Veterans who are receiving disability compensation at a rate of 30% or higher are eligible to add dependents to their benefits.

 

Eligible dependents include:

• Spouses: Legal spouses are eligible for additional compensation.

• Children: Biological children, stepchildren, adopted children, and in some cases, children over 18 who are attending school or are disabled.

• Parents: Dependent parents who rely on the veteran for financial support.

 

How to Apply: Veterans need to submit VA Form 21-686c (Declaration of Status of Dependents). This form can be submitted online through the VA's eBenefits portal, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office. Required documentation includes proof of marriage or birth certificates and any relevant medical records for disabled children.

 

Contact Information:

• Website: Dependent Benefits

• Phone: VA Benefits Hotline: 800-827-1000

 

Back Pay for Dependent Benefits

When a veteran is granted a disability rating of 30% or more and adds dependents to their compensation, they may be entitled to back pay. Back pay is calculated from the effective date of the increased rating or the date when the dependency claim was filed, whichever is later. This back pay compensates for the additional amount that would have been received if the dependents had been accounted for from the effective date of the rating increase.

 

Example: If a veteran received a 30% disability rating effective January 1, 2022, but did not add their dependent spouse and child until July 1, 2022, they may be entitled to back pay from January 1, 2022, to July 1, 2022. The VA will calculate the difference in compensation for this period and provide a lump sum payment to the veteran.

 

This ensures that veterans receive all the benefits they are entitled to from the earliest possible date, helping to support their families financially. It is important to file dependency claims promptly and keep all documentation up to date to ensure smooth processing and accurate benefit calculations.