Dependency As Compensation Claim?

[Loose Cannon]

Not sure why but ebennies lists a dependency claim I submitted in Aug 2013 as a compensation claim with a forecasted completion date window of Jan-Apr 2014. Is this normal?? I am aware that if approved, I may receive "back compensation pay" but that isn't the motivating factor. I am trying to get my 26 year old stepdaughter who has autism approved so she can be eligible for health care under CHAMPVA. I filed a claim to have the VA designate her a "helpless child" which is what is needed. She has NEVER worked and relies on her mother and me for daily care, etc.

Hopefully, they will approve it soon. Then, we will file for Social Security benefits for her. Any advice?

[Navy04]

That is normal bud. My Dependency Claim took 7 months, I just got it this month.

[bobz]

Mine has been sitting in clain recieved since May makes no sense. Press on with the Social Security claim do not wait on the VA.

[JT24usn]

One of your biggest hurdles will be to prove she was incapable of self support prior to age 18. And she hasn't been on social security?

http://www.benefits.va.gov/WARMS/docs/admin21/m21_1/mr/part3/subptiii/ch07/ch07.doc

Edited November 19, 2013 by T8r

[Loose Cannon]

Thanks for the replies...Good to know that this is "normal" for claims like this. I was going to wait until this is approved and use the VA 's deciscion as further evidence when submitting her Soc Security claim. I have always taken care of her needs (financially, etc.) and until age 18 she was covered medically by TriCare. My bad for not seeking SSA benefits sooner but I have had my own health issues to deal with. Huge weight off my shoulders after my VA claim was approved...now the focus is on my stepdaughter. She was diagnosed at a young age with autism, did not graduate HS, and has doctor reports & tests done that should prove favorable I hope.

[jbasser]

Go ahead and file for SSDI SSA 112.09 covers autism. Don't worry about the VA The dependency issue is treated like a claim, but they are wrong in doing this. Dependency is a ancillary benefit. This attitude will change fairly soon.

Hang in there.

J

[Loose Cannon]

Sounds like good advice...thanks! Should we expect either the VA and/or the SSA to schedule an exam for her (similar to a C&P exam) as part of the process? She has solid paperwork documenting the Autism diagnosis but that was several years ago. I submitted everything I had to the VA when the claim was filed (doc visits, school records, statements, etc.) I mean...can't imagine anyone thinking that autism cures itself as time goes on?? Just trying to get all our ducks in line.