What about my Offspring?

[Bigkevo44]

Dear Veterans,

I need assistance in determining whether my adult child is entitled to any VA disability benefits. Although she was never in the service, she has developed many of the psychological issues that I suffer from because of my neuro-behavioral condition after exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. She has never been to Lejeune either by the way. I have been awarded permanent and total unemployability from the VA because of my condition. It stands to reason that if my offspring was affected by that same condition through me that they should be entitled to some benefits. If this doesn’t seem too outlandish, where should I begin? Thanks in advance for your assistance in this matter.

[broncovet]

There are 3 benefits Im aware of:

1.  Dependency.  If your adult child lives with you and is dependent on you, then you should get compensation for them as a dependent.  Its easy to add them as a dependent, however, if your adult child is over 21, you may have to have some proof of disability for the child.  

2.  DEA Chapter 35 benefits.  If your child, under age 23, goes to college, the VA will pay a monthly stipend of around 1100 per month, but I dont think you can get both 1 and 2 at the same time.  

3.  Scholarships.  Again this applies if you child is/will be attending school. 

Edited September 15, 2021 by broncovet (see edit history)