Tuesday, June 19, 2012

How to Claim Veterans Death Benefits for a Spouse or Child

By Samantha Volz

For loyal and honorable service in the Untied States military, veterans are entitled to a number of benefits, including education assistance and tax breaks. When the veteran dies, dependents such as spouses or children may be eligible to receive compensation from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. These dependents should use VA Form 21-534 to apply for benefits they may be allowed as dependents of a veteran, and also for any accrued benefits, or money owed to the veteran that was not paid before his death.

Fill out VA Form 21-534, also called the Application for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, Death Pension and Accrued Benefits by a Surviving Spouse or Child. This form is available on line and from your local VA regional office. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, your nearest office can be found in the blue pages of a telephone book under "United States Government, Veterans;" the VA web site also features of list of office locations.

Answer all questions to the best of your ability; if you do not know an answer, write unknown. Make sure you sign and date the application at the end, or else your claim may not be processed.

Attach to the form any documentation you have of dependency on the recently deceased veteran. For spouses, this can include a marriage certificate; for children, include birth certificates or adoption papers..

Make a photocopy of everything you turn into the Department of Veterans Affairs, including the application. This will ensure that your documentation is not lost in case something goes wrong with the process.

Mail or take the application and all applicable documents to your nearest VA regional office. The staffers of the office will provide you with any further information you need regarding your specific claim.

If you have no dependency documentation, your claim may still be considered. Send the completed form alone to the Department of Veterans Affairs.

If you have questions regarding your claim or the application, contact your VA regional office or call 1-800-827-1000.


http://www.lenderva.com

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