The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a range of benefits to eligible veterans, including compensation for disabilities, education and training, and healthcare. One important aspect of these benefits is the ability to claim dependents, which can increase the amount of compensation a veteran receives. To claim dependents on veterans benefits, veterans must complete and submit VA Form 21-686c, also known as the Declaration of Status of Dependents. In this article, we will explore the importance of claiming dependents on veterans benefits, the process of completing VA Form 21-686c, and the benefits of doing so.
Understanding the Importance of Claiming Dependents
Claiming dependents on veterans benefits is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it allows veterans to receive additional compensation for their dependents, which can help to support their families. Secondly, it enables veterans to access other benefits, such as education and training, healthcare, and home loan guarantees, which can improve their overall quality of life. Finally, claiming dependents on veterans benefits can also affect the amount of compensation a veteran receives in the event of their death, as their dependents may be eligible for survivor benefits.
Who Can Be Claimed as a Dependent?
The VA allows veterans to claim the following individuals as dependents:
- Spouse
- Children under the age of 18
- Children between the ages of 18 and 23 who are pursuing a course of instruction at an approved educational institution
- Children who are permanently incapable of self-support due to a disability
- Parents who are dependent on the veteran for support
Completing VA Form 21-686c
To claim dependents on veterans benefits, veterans must complete and submit VA Form 21-686c. The form requires veterans to provide information about their dependents, including their names, dates of birth, and relationships to the veteran. Veterans must also provide documentation to support their claims, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and proof of dependency.
Here are the steps to complete VA Form 21-686c:
- Download and print VA Form 21-686c from the VA website or obtain a copy from a VA regional office.
- Complete the form in ink, making sure to sign and date it.
- Attach supporting documentation, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and proof of dependency.
- Submit the form and supporting documentation to the VA regional office.
What to Expect After Submitting VA Form 21-686c
After submitting VA Form 21-686c, the VA will review the application and verify the information provided. The VA may request additional documentation or information to support the claim. If the claim is approved, the veteran will receive additional compensation for their dependents, and their dependents may become eligible for other benefits.
Benefits of Claiming Dependents on Veterans Benefits
Claiming dependents on veterans benefits can have several benefits for veterans and their families. Some of the benefits include:
- Increased compensation for veterans with dependents
- Eligibility for other benefits, such as education and training, healthcare, and home loan guarantees
- Survivor benefits for dependents in the event of the veteran's death
- Improved overall quality of life for veterans and their families
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Claiming Dependents
When claiming dependents on veterans benefits, there are several common mistakes to avoid. These include:
- Failing to provide supporting documentation
- Providing incomplete or inaccurate information
- Not signing and dating the form
- Not submitting the form to the correct VA regional office
Conclusion
Claiming dependents on veterans benefits is an important step for veterans who want to support their families and access additional benefits. By completing and submitting VA Form 21-686c, veterans can increase their compensation and improve their overall quality of life. It is essential to provide accurate and complete information, as well as supporting documentation, to avoid delays or denials of claims. If you are a veteran who wants to claim dependents on your benefits, we encourage you to take the first step today.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable information about claiming dependents on veterans benefits. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.
Who can be claimed as a dependent on veterans benefits?
+The VA allows veterans to claim the following individuals as dependents: spouse, children under the age of 18, children between the ages of 18 and 23 who are pursuing a course of instruction at an approved educational institution, children who are permanently incapable of self-support due to a disability, and parents who are dependent on the veteran for support.
What is VA Form 21-686c?
+VA Form 21-686c is the Declaration of Status of Dependents form, which veterans must complete and submit to claim dependents on their benefits.
What are the benefits of claiming dependents on veterans benefits?
+The benefits of claiming dependents on veterans benefits include increased compensation for veterans with dependents, eligibility for other benefits, such as education and training, healthcare, and home loan guarantees, survivor benefits for dependents in the event of the veteran's death, and improved overall quality of life for veterans and their families.