Adoption question, thanks in advance!

[TiredVeteran]

Hi,

 

Sorry if this is the wrong forum. Short version, I am unable to find a definitive answer to this question: If a disabled veteran adopts a child who had already turned 18, will this child be eligible for Chapter 35 benefits?  In our state, children age out of the foster care system at 18 and are pretty much on their own. Any advice most appreciated!!!!!!

 

Debbie ......................HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

[broncovet]

Adoption does not bar eligibility According to the VA eligibility pamphlet,, if you meet the other criteria:

http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/docs/pamphlets/ch35_pamphlet_2.pdf

[TiredVeteran]

Hi, Thank you. Seems like the things I have read are contradictory. Our children did use their Chapter 35 benefits. I just wanted to make sure that an 18 year old being adopted by us would have the same benefits.

Debbie

[broncovet]

NOTHING is certain with VA.  I simply recommend you apply and try it.  Expect the royal Runaround, and you are unlikely to be disappointed, but persistance should win.  Make sure you have all the paperwork, the adoption from the judge, birth certificate, etc.  

[TiredVeteran]

Thanks again! I called the VA number on the link you provided and was told that the age of adoption did not matter. There is  a real crisis in the USA of children aging out of foster care with no home.  Even though we are aged ourselves, an 18 year old should be pretty physically self sufficient. We have an extra bedroom and a LOT of love. I am going to try as hard as possible to have him here to spend Christmas. Wow. Maybe that bump on the head a few months ago had one good outcome. Since last March, I have researched, prayed, and now put in an official request.  Homelessness had always been a cause for me.

Realizing that foster children just get ousted for the most part broke my heart. 

[TiredVeteran]

Just reaching out.........has anyone adopted an 18 year old? Just got a message from a trusted member that you have to adopt before age 18 years old. 

[JR Reihs]

I was always under the impression that the cut off was 17.