Birth Defects

Children who have spina bifida or certain other birth defects and are biological children of Veterans with qualifying service in the Republic of South Vietnam or Republic of Korea may be eligible for various VA benefits, to include monthly monetary compensation, health care and vocational training depending on the child's degree of disability. The monetary compensation may be paid at one of three disability levels, based on the severity of the disability.

Eligibility Requirements (Spina Bifida)

A male or female Veteran's child may be eligible if:

• The Veteran parent served in the Republic of South Vietnam during the period from January 9, 1962 through May 7, 1975, OR
• The Veteran parent served in or near the Korean demilitarized zone (DMZ) during the period from September 1, 1967 through August 31, 1971 and was exposed to herbicides (service between April 1, 1968 and August 31, 1971 in or near the DMZ presumes exposure to herbicides.), AND
  • The child was conceived after the date on which the Veteran parent served in either the Republic of South Vietnam or the Republic of Korea, AND
  • The child has been diagnosed with a form of Spina Bifida other than Spina Bifida Occulta.

NOTE: VA has no requirements regarding the character of the parent's discharge or the length of his or her service.

Eligibility Requirements (Birth Defects)

A female Veteran's child may be eligible if:

• The female Veteran served in the Republic of South Vietnam during the period from February 28, 1961 through May 7, 1975, AND
• The child was conceived after the date on which the mother served in either the Republic of South Vietnam, AND
• The child has a covered birth defect that resulted in a permanent physical or mental disability.

  Evidence Requirements

  • Service records prove that the biological Veteran parent has qualifying Vietnam or specific Korean service dates and duty assignments, AND
  • Evidence shows a biological relationship between the child and the Veteran parent with qualifying Vietnam or specific Korean service, AND
  • A birth certificate determines date of conception, AND
  • Medical evidence reflects a diagnosis of spina bifida or a covered birth defect.

  How to Apply:

  • Complete VA Form 21-0304 "Application for Benefits for Certain Children with Disabilities born of Vietnam and Certain Korea Service Veterans" and mail to the VA Regional Office in Denver, CO, OR
  • Work with an accredited representative or agent, OR
  • Go to a VA regional office and have a VA employee assist you. You can find your regional office on our Facility Locator page.

  For more information on how to apply and for tips on making sure your claim is ready to be processed by VA, visit our How to Apply page.