Dependent Turning 18

[WOLF14]

Hello,

I have a child turning 18 years old this December. Do I need to contact the VA to ensure I get an increase to the Compensation Benefits Rate for him and do I need to ensure they know that he is still a full time student?

Thank you,

V/r

WOLF

[JayBrown1]

Yes, you do. You will also have to fill out some forms as well. Not exactly sure of form number, but send a letter informing them that he is a full time student and they will send you all the forms you need.

[71M10]

Be prepared for up to 18 months for this to get straightend out. They are not supposed to drop them from the award if they have an indication that they are staying in school, but we know the VA only follows the rules they find convenient for them.

Best regards,

[JR Reihs]

Get something from his HS, showing the anticipated Grad date, on their letterhead, and also to show that he is still attending......Redundent, but it is how it works best.

Send into the RO ASAP....Certified mail with a Return receipt.

[WOLF14]

Thanks to All for the reply amd advice.

[WOLF14]

Can I go through Ebenifits to let the VA know that my child is 18 and still in school?

[meghp0405]

Chief,

Just because your son is turning 18 will not give you an increase in your dependent award. When your son graduates high school and is enrolled and attending college/vocational school, then the benefit amount increases.

Or if your disability increase, the benefit amount will increase.

I would suggest having your son obtain a letter from the school (with the schools letterhead) where he is attending school. have them state "(childs name) is currently enrolled in ------high School with a projected graduation date of xx-xx-xxxx. Send this letter certified with a return receipt requested. This way you will have a copy of the letter and a receipt of VA receiving the documents.

I have had many veterans visit my office that have submitted documents over the e-benefits site only to become lost in cyber space.

Be proactive and do this as soon as possible. If the VA drops the child it takes on average 18 months to get back enrolled and payments re-started.

good luck and thank you for your service!

Edited November 20, 2013 by meghp0405