Who needs a VA 21-534 form?
An applicant uses the VA 21-534 form to apply for 1) VA benefits they may be entitled to receive as a surviving spouse or child of a deceased veteran; 2) any money VA owed the veteran but did not pay before the veteran’s death (accrued benefits).
What is the VA 21-534 form for?
This form provides the competent authorities with information whether an applicant is eligible for pension or can be subject to indemnity compensation.
A person can be a subject for dependency and indemnity compensation when: 1) a soldier was killed while carrying out their military duties; 2) soldier died from a disability related to military service; 3) in certain circumstances if a veteran rated totally disabled from service-connected disability dies from non-service-connected conditions.
In turn, a death pension may be payable when: 1) the death of a veteran with wartime service is not due to service, and 2) the income is within applicable limits. The amount of accrued by the VA’s pension is determined by the quantity of family income and number of children in the family.
Is the VA 21-534 form accompanied by other forms?
Submission of the VA 21-534 form may be accompanied by an SSA-24 form attached. This one can help you to apply for Social Security benefits in case you want the VA to do this for you. Also, you need to attach a copy of the death certificate unless the veteran died in active service.
When is VA 21-534 form due?
This form must be filed within one year after the soldier's death. The compensation or pension will be calculated from the date when this form was submitted.
How do I fill out VA 21-534 form?
You must provide the Department of Veterans Affairs with information about what you are applying and what you and the deceased veteran have applied for. Also, you must provide information about the veteran’s active duty service, your and veteran’s marriages, unmarried children of the veteran, net worth and income of you and your dependents, etc.
Where do I send VA 21-534 form?
The completed form should be sent to the nearest Department of Veterans Affairs office.