M21-1, Part IX, Subpart ii, Chapter 1, Section B – Eligibility Determinations and Claims

In This Section

Introduction

• eligibility determinations made by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and
• eligibility determinations made by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Change Date

IX.ii.1.B.1.a.  Eligibility Determinations Made by VA

• line of duty and service connection for the cause of death as provided in38 CFR 3.1(k) and 38 CFR 3.1(m), based on a service-connected disability incurred or aggravated after September 15, 1940, and
• whether discharge or release from active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training was under conditions other than dishonorable per 38 CFR 3.12 and 38 CFR 3.804.

IX.ii.1.B.1.b.  Eligibility Determinations Made by SSA

• whether the Veteran was fully and currently insured at the time of death
• whether there is a survivor eligible to receive the special allowance under38 U.S.C. 1312(a)
• the first month of entitlement and the amount of monthly benefits that are to be paid to each eligible survivor under 38 U.S.C. 1312(a), and
• any subsequent determination requiring
  • deductions from monthly benefits
  • termination of entitlement, or
  • increases or decreases in monthly benefits.

Introduction

• accepting claims for the special allowance, and
• handling the receipt of VA Form 21-4182, Application for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation or Death Pension (Including Accrued Benefits and Death Compensation Where Applicable).

Change Date

IX.ii.1.B.2.a.  Accepting Claims for the Special Allowance

• VA Form 21P-534, Application for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, Death Pension and Accrued Benefits by a Surviving Spouse or Child (Including Death Compensation if Applicable)
• VA Form 21P-534EZ, Application for DIC, Death Pension, and/or Accrued Benefits
• VA Form 21P-534a, Application for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Compensation by a Surviving Spouse or Child – In-Service Death Only, or
• VA Form 21P-535, Application for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation by Parent(s) (Including Accrued Benefits and Death Compensation When Applicable).

IX.ii.1.B.2.b.  Handling the Receipt of VA Form 21-4182