Who needs VA form 21-0538?
The VA form 21-0538 is the United States Department of Veteran Affairs form that serves as the Status of Dependents Questionnaire. The form must be completed by a veteran entitled to a compensation for their service-connection disability and the extra amount paid for their dependents (a spouse and children). It is the disabled veteran’s responsibility to report any change in the number of their dependents.
What is the purpose of the form VA 21-0538?
The Department of Veteran Affairs will require the information requested by the questionnaire to make sure that the entitlement for the veteran’s compensation should be continued. If the number of dependents hasn’t changed, the benefits will be continued; if it has changed, the benefits should be adjusted properly too.
Is the Status of Dependents Questionnaire accompanied by any other forms?
Typically, it is recommended to submit the documents proving the statements given on the form; however, it is not mandatory that all additional information be submitted at once --they may be added at any time, as considered necessary.
When is the VA form 21-0538 due?
The form must be returned within 60 days from the date the letter requesting to fill out this questionnaire was received. If this deadline is not followed, the amount of compensation will be reduced as the VA department finds appropriate.
How to fill out the VA form 21-0538?
The following information is required on the VA form:
- The veteran's full name;
- Marital status;
- The spouse’s full name, SSN and DOB;
- Information about child(men): full name, DOB, place of birth, SSN, etc.;
- Information about terminated dependents if any;
- Remarks;
- Contact phone numbers;
- The Veteran’s signature;
- Date of signing.
Where to send the filled out form VA 21-0538?
The completed Status of Dependents Questionnaire must be directed to the VA office which sent you the letter and the enclosed form.
