What is VA Form 21-686c? And Why Is It So Important?
VA Form 21-686c is an important VA form that can help veterans secure additional VA benefits aside from the compensation associated with their service-connected disability. If you are a veteran, you may wonder what VA Form 21-886c is, why it is so important, and if this would benefit my family or me. Our VA disability lawyers explain in this article why this VA form is crucial for you and your family.
What is VA Form 21-686c?
VA Form 21-686c, or Declaration of Status of Dependents, is a form that veterans can file to receive additional monthly compensation for qualifying dependents. These dependents include;
Your spouse
Your unmarried children (must be under 18) (or are between 18 and 23 are currently enrolled full-time in school.) Children can include; biological children, stepchildren, and adopted children.
Children who were disabled before the age of 18
Dependent parents who meet the poverty line
To be eligible for these benefits, veterans must have a combined disability rating of at least 30 percent.
What questions will I need to answer in order complete VA Form 21-686c?
You will be asked specific and detailed questions about each dependent that you are claiming on this form. Along with the questions, you will have to include supporting documents when filing. These questions include;
Full legal names
Social security numbers
Birth dates and place of birth
Current address
Current status
Marriage date and type of marriage
Date, location, and reason for termination of marriage, such as death, divorce, or annulment (if applicable)
VA number (of yourself and spouse if applicable)
What supporting documents do I need to complete VA Form 21-686c?
This form is 12 pages and does request highly detailed information. Because of the detail requested in this form, is it beneficial to collect the following documents and information before completing your application. Copies of these supporting documents will also be submitted along with the application. These documents include the following;
Marriage certificates (current and former for both you and your spouse)
Divorce decrees (recent and former for both you and your spouse)
Death certificates
Birth certificates
School documents
Social security cards
If you are a veteran and have questions about VA Form 21-686c, you need guidance in completing or submitting this form. Or if you would like a complimentary case review to increase your monthly benefits. Our nationwide VA attorneys are here to assist you. Please feel free to call us at 877 VET FILE.
If I am approved, what benefits am I entitled?
If you and or a dependent is approved, you could be entitled to the following benefits;
Health care
Survivor pension
Life insurance
Education and training programs
Home loan programs
Financial training
Support for caring for a veteran
Assistance in burial benefits
How do I remove a dependent from VA Form 21-686c?
Once a veteran has successfully received dependency benefits, they will be paid a monthly amount, in addition to their disability compensation, for the dependent. However, suppose there is a change in the veteran's circumstances, such as the veteran getting divorced or their spouse passing away. In that case, the veteran needs to remove the dependent from their benefits to avoid creating an overpayment.
If an overpayment occurs, VA will begin to withhold money from your monthly disability check until the overpaid amount has been recovered and corrected. Therefore, using the same form, it is crucial to report any changes in dependents as soon as they occur.
We can assist you in receiving the VA benefits you deserve
At The VA Claims Lawyer, we're not just your legal representative. We're your advocate. We've successfully assisted countless veterans in getting the VA benefits they deserve. We can also help you obtain the best possible outcome in your case. If we don't win your case, there is no fee. Contact us today at (877) VET-FILE for your free case evaluation.
