Statement of Dependency of Parent(s)
Use this form to claim a parent as a dependent for additional VA compensation. Parents must meet specific income requirements to qualify as dependents.
Used in these claim stages:
Last updated by VA: January 1, 2024
How to Complete This Form
Complete all sections:
**Section I - Veteran Information**
Your personal and contact information.
**Section II - Parent Information**
For each parent claimed:
- Full name and date of birth
- Address
- Whether biological, adoptive, or step-parent
**Section III - Parent's Income**
Report all of the parent's income:
- Social Security benefits
- Pension income
- Employment income
- Investment income
- Any other income sources
**Section IV - Parent's Expenses**
Report parent's necessary living expenses:
- Housing costs
- Medical expenses
- Food and utilities
**Section V - Dependency Statement**
Explain how you provide support to the parent.
**Section VI - Certification**
Sign certifying the information is accurate.
Helpful Tips
- Parent must be dependent on you for support
- Parent's income must be below certain thresholds
- Both biological and adoptive parents can qualify
- Step-parents may qualify under certain circumstances
- You may need to provide financial records proving support
- Medical expenses can help reduce countable income
- This benefit is less commonly claimed but can add to compensation
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not accurately reporting parent's income
- Failing to document the support you provide
- Not including unreimbursed medical expenses (which reduce countable income)
- Assuming parents don't qualify without checking income limits
- Not updating VA when parent's financial situation changes
Deadline Information
No specific deadline, but file as soon as you believe your parent qualifies to begin receiving additional compensation.