Quick Tips

One of the more difficult tasks a survivor faces after the death of the veteran is completing the numerous claims forms for VA survivors' benefits. The anxiety and fear of the unknown - who to call, what to do, or where to go for help - can be an unpleasant experience. To help ease the burden and to ensure you will have the necessary details for filing a claim, here are some basic quick tips.

Documents Needed

1. the veteran's discharge certificate or DD 214
2. the veteran's VA claim's number or Social Security number
3. the veteran's death certificate
4. Government life insurance policy
5. a copy of all marriage certificates and divorce decrees (if any)
6. a copy of each child's birth certificate (or adoption order)
7. veteran's birth certificate to determine parents' benefits

1. This web site
2. Secure electronic messaging
3. Federal Benefits for Veterans and Dependents (An informative pamphlet)
4. VA service representatives can answer questions about benefits eligibility and application procedures. Contact the nearest VA benefits office at 1-800-827-1000 from any location in the United States and Puerto Rico. VA facilities also are listed in the federal government section of telephone directories under "Veterans Affairs".

Suggestions for improvements or additions to this site may be sent to this e-mail address.
Please do NOT send benefits questions to this address.

Specific benefits questions should be sent to the "Contact the VA" web site.

Questions about or problems using this web site may be referred to the Webmaster, Veterans Benefits Administration.    Please do not use this e-mail for benefits questions.    You should use the Contact VA web messaging form for that purpose.

Thank you.

This page has been accessed    times since June 23, 2006.