If you are a veteran receiving VA disability compensation, adding a dependent such as a spouse, child, or parent can increase your monthly benefit payments.
This guide will walk you through the process of adding a dependent to your VA disability benefits, including eligibility requirements, the forms needed, and step-by-step instructions for submitting your request.
Why Adding a Dependent Increases Your VA Disability Benefits
The VA provides additional compensation to veterans with a disability rating of 30% or higher who have eligible dependents. This extra compensation is meant to help support the veteran’s family and dependents. Eligible dependents can include:
- Spouse (including common-law or same-sex spouses)
- Children (biological, stepchildren, adopted children, or children between ages 18-23 if attending school full-time)
- Parents (if they are financially dependent on you)
What Are the Benefits of Adding a Dependent?
When you add eligible dependents to your VA disability benefits, your monthly payment will increase. The exact amount of the increase depends on your current disability rating and the number of dependents. For example, a veteran with a 70% disability rating will receive more in monthly compensation for a spouse and child than a veteran with a 30% disability rating.
To see specific rates for adding dependents to your VA compensation, you can visit the VA Disability Compensation Rates page.
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Eligibility for Adding Dependents
To be eligible to add dependents to your VA disability benefits, you must meet the following criteria:
- You have a disability rating of 30% or higher.
- You have eligible dependents, such as a spouse, children, or parents.
- You provide the necessary documentation to prove the relationship between you and your dependents, such as a marriage certificate, birth certificate, or adoption papers.
How to Add a Dependent to Your VA Disability Benefits
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to add a dependent to your VA disability benefits.
Step 1: Gather Required Documentation
Before you submit your request, you’ll need to gather the necessary documents to prove your relationship with your dependents. These documents may include:
- Marriage Certificate: To prove your relationship to your spouse.
- Birth Certificate(s): To prove your relationship to your children.
- Adoption Papers: If you are adding adopted children.
- School Enrollment Records: For children ages 18-23 attending school full-time.
- Proof of Financial Dependency: If adding parents as dependents.
Step 2: Complete VA Form 21-686c
To add dependents, you will need to fill out VA Form 21-686c (Declaration of Status of Dependents). This form collects information about your dependents and allows you to add or remove dependents from your compensation claim.
You can download the form from the VA’s official website or complete it online through your VA account.
Step 3: Submit Your Application Online or by Mail
Once you have completed VA Form 21-686c and gathered the necessary documentation, you can submit your application in one of two ways:
- Online Submission:
- You can submit the form and supporting documents through the VA’s official site. This method is generally faster and allows you to track the status of your claim.
- Mail Submission:
- You can mail the completed form and copies of your supporting documents to the VA Regional Office. Be sure to keep copies of everything for your records.
Step 4: Check the Status of Your Claim
After submitting your request, you can track the status of your claim on the VA’s website. Typically, the VA will take a few weeks to process your claim and adjust your disability payments accordingly.
For more information on tracking your claim, you can read How to Check the Status of Your VA Disability Claim.
How to Update or Remove a Dependent
If there is a change in your dependent status—such as a divorce or a child turning 18 and no longer attending school—you must update your VA records. To remove or update a dependent, you will use the same VA Form 21-686c and submit it to the VA, along with any supporting documents (e.g., divorce decree, child’s school records).
Failure to update your dependent status promptly could lead to overpayment issues or delays in future compensation adjustments.
Tips for Adding a Dependent to Your VA Benefits
- Submit Accurate Documentation: Ensure that you provide all the necessary documents proving the relationship with your dependents, as incomplete or incorrect documentation can delay your request.
- Track Your Claim Online: Submitting your claim online and tracking it through the VA’s website can help ensure a faster processing time.
- Use a VSO for Assistance: If you are unsure how to complete VA Form 21-686c or need assistance gathering documents, consider working with a Veterans Service Officer (VSO). A VSO can guide you through the process and ensure all paperwork is completed correctly. For help finding a VSO, visit Find a VA-Accredited Representative VSO.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Reporting Changes in Dependent Status: Failing to notify the VA of a divorce or a child aging out of eligibility can lead to overpayment or other issues. And overpayment may result in your having to reimburse the government.
- Incomplete Documentation: Ensure that you submit all the required documents, such as marriage or birth certificates, with your claim.
- Missing Out on Benefits: Some veterans with a disability rating of 30% or higher don’t realize they’re eligible for additional compensation if they have dependents.
Adding a dependent to your VA disability benefits is a straightforward process that can significantly increase your monthly compensation. By following the steps outlined in this guide, gathering the necessary documentation, and submitting VA Form 21-686c, you can ensure that your family receives the additional financial support they deserve.
For more information on related topics, check out How to File a VA Disability Claim and How to Add a Secondary Condition to Your VA Disability Claim.
