Adding a dependent to VA disability compensation benefits isn’t just about increasing your monthly compensation—it’s about making sure your family is taken care of.
The VA recognizes that veterans with dependents like spouses, children, and parents have additional financial responsibilities, and they offer extra support to help ease that burden.
But here’s the deal: understanding the eligibility criteria and navigating the process is mission-critical.
If you want to maximize your benefits and ensure your loved ones are covered, you’ve got to know the ins and outs of how to add dependents the right way.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know so you don’t miss out on the benefits you and your family have earned.
Let’s go!
Table of Contents
Summary of Key Points
- Veterans with a combined VA disability rating of 30% or higher may be eligible to add dependents, such as a spouse, children, or parents, to their VA disability compensation. Check the most current VA disability pay rates with dependents here.
- Qualifying dependents include spouses (including in same-sex and common-law marriages), children under 18 (or 18-23 if enrolled in school full-time), and parents who are financially dependent on the veteran.
- Veterans can add dependents at any time, particularly during initial disability claims or when there are significant family changes like marriage, childbirth, or adoption.
- Claims to add or remove dependents can be submitted online via VA.gov or by mail, with processing times typically ranging from 30 to 90 days.
Eligibility for Adding a Dependent to VA Disability
To add dependents to your VA disability benefits, you must first meet certain eligibility criteria:
#1. VA Disability Rating
You must have a VA disability rating of at least 30%.
Veterans with ratings below 30% are not eligible for additional compensation for dependents.
#2. Qualifying Dependents
The VA recognizes the following as dependents:
- Spouse: Your legally married spouse. The VA recognizes a spouse as a dependent, including those in same-sex and common-law marriages.
- Children: Biological children, adopted children, and stepchildren who are under 18 years old, or between 18 and 23 years old if they are attending school full-time. Children with permanent disabilities that occurred before the age of 18 are also eligible regardless of age.
- Parents: Biological, adoptive, or foster parents who are financially dependent on the veteran. Additional eligibility requirements apply.
VA Eligibility Matrix for Dependents
| If you are a … | Then you may be entitled to additional benefits for … |
|---|---|
| Veteran entitled to disability compensation with a combined disability rating of 30% or more | – A spouse – Children under age 18 – Children between the ages of 18 and 23 who are attending school – Children over age 18 who are permanently incapable of self-support – Dependent parents |
| Veteran entitled to Veterans Pension | – A spouse – Children under age 18 – Children between the ages of 18 and 23 who are attending school – Children over age 18 who are permanently incapable of self-support |
| Surviving spouse entitled to survivors benefits | – Children under age 18 – Children between the ages of 18 and 23 who are attending school – Children over age 18 who are permanently incapable of self-support Exception: A surviving spouse entitled to Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is not entitled to additional benefits for children over age 18 who receive DIC in their own right. |
How to Add or Remove Dependents
Adding dependents to your VA disability compensation is done through the VA’s formal application process.
You have two main options:
#1. Online Application
- Sign in using your Login.gov, ID.me, DS Logon, or My HealtheVet account.
- Navigate to the section for “Add or Remove Dependents” and follow the prompts to add your dependent’s information.
- You will need to upload any required documentation, such as a marriage certificate, birth certificate, or adoption papers.
Pro Tip: The VA is updating its sign-in process. After January 31, 2025, My HealtheVet will no longer be a sign-in option, and DS Logon will be phased out by September 30, 2025.
#2. Paper Application
- Fill out VA Form 21-686c, Declaration of Status of Dependents, which is used to declare dependents and any changes in dependent status.
- Submit the form to your local VA regional office either by mail or in person.
Supporting Documentation
- For a spouse, include a copy of your marriage certificate.
- For children, include copies of birth certificates, adoption papers, or school enrollment verification for children aged 18-23.
- For dependent parents, submit VA Form 21P-509, Statement of Dependency of Parent(s), and provide documentation of their financial dependency.
What Forms Do I Need to Submit?
| If This Describes You … | Then You Need to Submit … |
|---|---|
| You are seeking additional benefits for a child or children who are between the ages of 18 and 23 who are attending school | VA Form 21-674, Request for Approval of School Attendance. Note: Submit VA Form 21-686c in addition to VA Form 21-674 only if you have never received additional benefits for the child or children. |
| You are entitled to Veterans Pension (instead of disability compensation based on service-connected disabilities), and you are seeking additional benefits for a spouse only | VA Form 21P-0516-1, Improved Pension Eligibility Verification Report (Veteran With No Children), in addition to VA Form 21-686c. |
| You are entitled to Veterans Pension, you are seeking additional benefits for a child or children (with or without a spouse), and the child or children are under the age of 23 or permanently incapable of self-support | VA Form 21P-0517-1, Improved Pension Eligibility Verification Report (Veteran With Children), in addition to VA Form 21-686c. |
| You are entitled to Survivors Pension (instead of DIC based on a veteran’s service-connected death) and you are seeking additional benefits for a child or children that are either under the age of 23 or permanently incapable of self-support | VA Form 21P-0519s-1, Improved Pension Eligibility Verification Report (Surviving Spouse With Children), in addition to VA Form 21-686c. |
| You are a veteran entitled to disability compensation (based on service-connected disabilities), and you are seeking additional benefits for a dependent parent or parents | VA Form 21P-509, Statement of Dependency of Parent(s). Note: There is no need to submit VA Form 21-686c when filing a claim for additional benefits for a dependent parent or parents. |
| You are a veteran entitled to disability compensation, and you are seeking additional benefits for a spouse who requires aid and attendance | VA Form 21-2680, Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance, or if your spouse resides in a nursing home, use VA Form 21-0779, Request for Nursing Home Information in Connection with Claim for Aid and Attendance. Note: Submit VA Form 21-686c in addition to one of the forms referenced above only if you have never received additional benefits for your spouse. |
| You are a veteran seeking additional benefits for a spouse based on common-law marriage | VA Form 21-4170, Statement of Marital Relationship, and VA Form 21P-4171, Supporting Statement Regarding Marriage. Note: The above referenced forms must be submitted in addition to VA Form 21-686c. |
Where Do I Submit My VA Application to Add or Remove Dependents?
You can mail your application or submit it online as follows:
| Mail To | Submit Online |
|---|---|
| Department of Veterans Affairs Evidence Intake Center PO Box 4444 Janesville, WI 53547-4444 | Add or remove dependents online or Use the VA’s QuickSubmit tool |
What Happens After You Apply
Once your application is submitted, the VA will review your case to add or remove dependents.
If approved, you will receive a retroactive payment dating back to the time you first became eligible to add dependents (usually the date your disability rating was effective or the date of marriage or birth).
The VA typically processes dependent claims within 30-90 days, though it may take longer depending on the complexity of your case.
You can check the status of your claim through VA.gov or by contacting your local VA regional office.
Common Issues to Consider
Adding dependents is generally straightforward, but there are a few common issues to be aware of:
- Delayed Processing: Ensure that all forms are filled out completely and accurately. Missing information or documentation can delay the processing of your claim.
- Changes in Dependent Status: You are required to notify the VA if there are any changes in your dependents, such as a divorce, the death of a dependent, or if a child reaches the age limit and is no longer eligible.
- Verification: The VA may periodically request verification of your dependents’ status, especially for school-aged children or dependent parents. Keep copies of all submitted documentation.
Additional Considerations
- Retroactive Payments: If you’re adding a dependent after receiving your disability rating, you may be eligible for retroactive payments from the date of the qualifying event (such as the birth of a child or the date of your marriage).
- Concurrent Benefits: If you or your spouse is also receiving VA benefits, ensure that adding a dependent does not affect your benefits negatively. This can be especially complex if both spouses are veterans.
Conclusion & Wrap-Up
Adding dependents to your VA disability compensation benefits can provide crucial financial support, but it requires careful attention to detail and timely submission of necessary documentation.
By understanding the eligibility requirements and following the correct application procedures, you can maximize the benefits available to you and your family.
VA Add Dependents: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Am I eligible for additional VA disability compensation for my dependents?
You may be eligible for additional VA disability compensation if you have a combined disability rating of at least 30% and have one or more qualifying dependents. These dependents can include a spouse, child, or parent.
Who qualifies as a dependent?
The VA considers certain family members as dependents for the purpose of providing additional disability compensation. Here’s a breakdown:
- Spouse: The VA recognizes a spouse as a dependent, including those in same-sex and common-law marriages. This means that if you’re married, your spouse can be added as a dependent, potentially increasing your disability compensation.
- Parent: If you are financially responsible for a parent, they may qualify as a dependent. For a parent to be considered a dependent, their income and net worth must be below a certain threshold set by the VA. This typically applies when you are providing significant financial support to your parent.
- Unmarried Child: The VA also considers an unmarried child as a dependent if they meet certain criteria:
- Under 18 years old: Any child under the age of 18 is automatically considered a dependent.
- Between 18 and 23 years old and enrolled in school full-time: If your child is between 18 and 23 years old and is attending school full-time, they can still be considered a dependent.
- Permanently disabled before 18: If your child became permanently disabled before they turned 18, they can be considered a dependent regardless of their current age.
When should I add a dependent to my benefits?
You can add dependents at any time. Ideally, you should add a dependent when you first apply for disability compensation if you have a combined disability rating of at least 30%. Additionally, it’s important to update your dependents whenever there’s a change in your family situation, such as getting married, having or adopting a child, or becoming the caregiver for a dependent parent.
How do I add or remove a dependent from my VA benefits?
To add or remove a dependent, you can file a claim online through VA.gov using your verified account. Alternatively, you can submit the required forms by mail. The VA encourages online submissions for faster processing. To add or remove dependents from your VA benefits, you’ll need to fill out specific forms based on the type of dependent (see our “What Forms Do I Need to Submit” section above).
How do I add a spouse to my VA disability award?
To add a spouse, submit VA Form 21-686c along with evidence of the marriage, such as a marriage certificate. Additional documentation may be required in cases of common-law, tribal, or proxy marriages.
What additional evidence is required for adding a spouse by marriage?
The VA may require: (1) a copy of the public or church record of the marriage and/or (2) affidavits from witnesses or other secondary evidence.
How do I establish a common-law marriage for VA benefits?
Submit VA Form 21-4170 and VA Form 21P-4171, along with birth certificates of children from the marriage if applicable.
Can I add an adopted child to my benefits?
Yes, you need to submit a copy of the final adoption decree, adoptive placement agreement, or a revised birth certificate.
How do I add a parent as a dependent?
Submit VA Form 21P-509, Statement of Dependency of Parent(s), if the parent is financially dependent on you.
What if my child is permanently incapable of self-support?
You can add a child beyond their 23rd birthday if you submit medical evidence proving they became permanently incapable of self-support before turning 18.
How do I remove a spouse or child from my award?
- Divorce or Death of Spouse: Submit VA Form 21-686c with the divorce decree or death certificate.
- Child Turning 18: The VA automatically stops payments unless the child is still in school.
- Child Marriage: Notify the VA as the child is no longer considered a dependent.
Where do I send the forms to add or remove dependents?
Mail them to the Department of Veterans Affairs Evidence Intake Center at PO Box 4444, Janesville, WI 53547-4444, or submit them online via VA.gov or the QuickSubmit tool.
How do I view my current dependents?
To check which dependents are currently listed on your VA disability benefits, you can use the VA’s online view current dependents tool. Once you login, you’ll be able to review and manage your dependents easily.
What happens if I don’t add my dependent immediately?
If you do not add a dependent immediately but later meet the eligibility requirements, you may still qualify for back pay. This back pay could cover the period from when your disability rating became 30% or higher to when you officially added the dependent, provided you file the claim within one year.
Can both my spouse and I receive additional compensation if we’re both veterans?
Yes, if both you and your spouse are Veterans with a disability rating of at least 30%, you can both receive additional compensation for each other and for any children. The processing time for dual claims may be longer, but it is possible to receive benefits for each other and your dependents.
What if my family situation changes, like a divorce or a child turning 18?
If you get divorced, you should notify the VA immediately to stop receiving additional compensation for an ex-spouse or stepchildren. For a child turning 18, the VA will automatically stop additional compensation unless you notify them that the child is still enrolled in school full-time.
Can I file my dependent claim online or by mail?
You can file your claim for dependents either online or by mail. Filing online is encouraged by the VA as it is faster and allows you to upload supporting documents. If you file online, the VA recognizes the start date of your claim as the date you begin the online process, which could affect your back pay eligibility.
Can I get back pay for adding a spouse or child?
The VA may provide back pay to the date of your marriage, the birth, or the adoption of your child if you had already received a combined disability rating of at least 30% at the time of the event. You must file your claim within one year of the event and respond promptly to any additional requests for information from the VA to qualify for this back pay. If you file after one year, you may only receive back pay from the date the VA received your claim.
How will the VA continue to pay me for my child who is over 18 and still in school?
If your child remains in school after turning 18, you will need to update their information through the VA’s online tool. The VA automatically stops paying additional disability compensation for children when they turn 18 unless you provide updated information confirming their full-time student status.
Do I need to notify the VA to stop payments when my child turns 18?
No, the VA will automatically stop paying additional disability compensation for your child when they turn 18 unless you inform them that the child is still enrolled in school full-time. This process is managed based on the date of birth you provided when you first added the child as a dependent.
How long do VA dependent claims take to process?
The time it takes for the VA to process dependent claims typically ranges from 30 to 90 days. However, the actual time can vary based on several factors:
- Completeness of the Application: If all required forms and documentation are submitted accurately and completely, the process can be quicker. Missing or incomplete information can lead to delays.
- Workload at the VA: The processing time can also be affected by the current workload at the VA. Times may increase if there is a high volume of claims being processed.
- Complexity of the Claim: Claims involving multiple dependents, unusual circumstances, or the need for additional verification can take longer.
- Retroactive Claims: If your claim includes a request for retroactive payments, it might take additional time for the VA to calculate and approve these payments.
About the Author
Brian Reese
Brian Reese is a world-renowned VA disability benefits expert and the #1 bestselling author of VA Claim Secrets and You Deserve It. Motivated by his own frustration with the VA claim process, Brian founded VA Claims Insider to help disabled veterans secure their VA disability compensation faster, regardless of their past struggles with the VA. Since 2013, he has positively impacted the lives of over 10 million military, veterans, and their families.
A former active-duty Air Force officer, Brian has extensive experience leading diverse teams in challenging international environments, including a combat tour in Afghanistan in 2011 supporting Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.
Brian is a Distinguished Graduate of Management from the United States Air Force Academy and earned his MBA from Oklahoma State University’s Spears School of Business, where he was a National Honor Scholar, ranking in the top 1% of his class.
