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Reviewed July 31, 2026

Add or remove dependents from VA disability compensation

A Veteran with a combined VA disability rating of at least 30% may qualify for additional compensation for an eligible spouse, child, or dependent parent. Report family changes promptly to prevent missed payments or overpayment debt.

This is a separate dependency claim

Adding a dependent does not change the disability rating itself. It updates the people VA uses when calculating certain benefit payments.

Check the disability-compensation threshold

For additional disability compensation, VA generally requires eligibility for VA disability compensation and a combined rating of at least 30%. A spouse, eligible child, or dependent parent may qualify under different rules.

Identify the family change

  • Marriage or divorce.
  • Birth or adoption of a child.
  • A child turning 18 and continuing full-time school between ages 18 and 23.
  • A child who became permanently disabled before age 18.
  • A dependent’s death or another change that ends eligibility.
  • A parent becoming financially dependent on the Veteran.

Use the correct current form

For a spouse or child, use VA Form 21-686c, Application Request to Add and/or Remove Dependents, or the current online dependency tool. VA lists the form revision as August 2025.

  • For a child age 18 to 23 attending school, VA may also require VA Form 21-674.
  • For a dependent parent, use the current VA Form 21P-509 process.
  • Special evidence can apply to adoption, common-law marriage, tribal marriage, proxy marriage, or a child disabled before age 18.

Gather the information before filing

Prepare the Veteran’s VA file information and the dependent’s legal name, Social Security number when requested, date and place of birth, relationship, and relevant event dates. The exact supporting record depends on the relationship and circumstances.

File online or by mail

  1. Online: VA currently provides a tool to add, remove, or update dependents.
  2. Mail: use the current official form and Evidence Intake Center address shown on VA.gov.
  3. With help: an accredited VSO representative, attorney, or claims agent can assist.

Report removals without delay

Notify VA promptly after divorce, a dependent’s death, a child’s marriage, or the end of qualifying school attendance. If VA continues paying an amount based on a person who is no longer eligible, the result can be overpayment debt and withholding from future benefits.

Timing can affect payment

You may add a dependent with the original disability claim or later. Filing within one year of a marriage, birth, or adoption—and responding timely to VA requests—can affect the potential start date of additional compensation. Use current VA instructions for the specific event.

Save and verify the update

Keep the confirmation, completed form, supporting records, and any VA response. Check the dependents listed in the VA account and the effective date in the decision notice. Contact VA if a person is missing or remains listed incorrectly.

Official sources

Related resources