VA disability claims end when a veteran dies, unless someone “substitutes” in the place of the veteran.
As a general rule, VA disability compensation claims end if a veteran dies while the claim is pending. However, does the veteran have a surviving spouse or child? If so, then these surviving family members may act as a substitute. They can then take over the claim for the benefits that would have accrued through the date of the veteran’s death. Below, we explain what to do when a veteran dies if a survivor would like to continue to pursue benefits.
Who is an eligible substitute claimant?
There are 3 classes of eligible substitute claimants:
- a surviving spouse,
- a dependent child or children, but they must be a) under age 18, b) between 18 and 23 if they are attending school, or c) found to be helpless,
- one or both surviving dependent parents.
The most common scenario is when a surviving spouse takes over the claim. Whoever takes over the claim can receive the veteran’s past due benefits.
How does an eligible person substitute?
The first step is to contact the VA and tell the VA that the veteran died. This can be done by letter or by calling VA’s toll-free number: (800) 827-1000.
Next, the person that wants to substitute must complete VA form 21 – 0847 – Request for Substitution of Claimant Upon Death of Claimant. That form must be filed within one year of the veteran’s death. That does not mean it needs to be mailed. VA must actually receive the form within one year.
The person who substitutes should then continue handling the claims. That includes filing timely appeals of any claims that were denied before the veteran’s death. For instance, did the veteran receive a Rating Decision denying a claim or awarding benefits but at a rate that was too low? If so, then the person who substitutes must file a notice of disagreement within one year. There are other decisions in the VA system that must be appealed, and each type of appeal has a different deadline. Anyone who substitutes for a deceased veteran must meet whatever deadline applies. Those deadlines are the same as if the veteran had survived. They do not get extended because of the veteran’s death.
Can new claims be filed after a veteran dies?
No. The law does not allow a new claim for disability to be filed after death.
If someone substitutes, how long are benefits paid?
When a veteran dies, the maximum period of time that benefits can be paid will be from the date the veteran applied for benefits through the date of their death. Many people are under the misconception that a veteran can get retroactive benefits to the time they left service. However, the law does not allow for retro pay. Also, the substitute claimant cannot collect continuing benefits. They may conceivably qualify for another type of benefit called Dependency and Indemnity Compensation. We address this in the section below.
Are there other VA benefits for widows and dependents?
Yes. VA has a program called Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, often called DIC. Click here to learn more about widows and dependents VA benefits.
