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Filing for veterans' benefits can often be a complex and daunting process, but understanding the necessary forms can help simplify this task. Among these, the VA Form 21-526B, also known as the Veteran's Supplemental Claim for Compensation, plays a crucial role for veterans seeking to adjust their benefits. This form allows for the application for increased evaluation of existing disabilities, service connection for new disabilities, reopening of previously denied disabilities, and claims for disabilities secondary to existing service-connected conditions. Additionally, veterans can use this form to apply for other VA benefits like Aid and Attendance, Automobile Allowance, or specify other benefits. Critical sections of the form include identifying information about the veteran, details about the claim, information on relevant treatment records, and authorization for the VA to obtain private treatment records if necessary. The form also includes provisions for claiming additional benefits due to a seriously disabled spouse. The importance of accurately completing this form cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts the veteran's eligibility and the determination process for the claimed benefits. The form carries a warning about the mandatory provision of the Social Security Number (SSN) under Title 38 USC 5101(c)(1) and includes a privacy act notice detailing how the information provided will be used and protected. With an estimated completion time of just 15 minutes, the VA Form 21-526B is designed to be both accessible and efficient, yet it plays a pivotal role in ensuring veterans receive the benefits they are rightfully entitled to.

Preview - Va 21 526B Form

OMB Control No. 2900-0001 Respondent Burden: 15 minutes Expiration Date: 6/30/2017

VETERAN'S SUPPLEMENTAL CLAIM FOR COMPENSATION

IMPORTANT: PLEASE READ THE PRIVACY ACT NOTICE AND RESPONDENT BURDEN INFORMATION BELOW BEFORE COMPLETING THIS FORM.

VA DATE STAMP

DO NOT WRITE IN THIS SPACE

PART I - VETERAN'S IDENTIFYING INFORMATION

1.NAME OF VETERAN (First, Middle, Last)

2. VETERAN'S SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

3. VA FILE NUMBER

4.VETERAN'S ADDRESS (Number, street or rural route, City or P.O., State and ZIP Code)

5. TELEPHONE NUMBER(S)

A. DAYTIME (Include Area Code)

B. EVENING (Include Area Code)

 

 

6.E-MAIL ADDRESS (If applicable)

PART II - INFORMATION ABOUT CLAIM

7. I WOULD LIKE TO FILE A CLAIM FOR: (Check all that apply)

INCREASED EVALUATION OF THE DISABILITY(IES) FOR WHICH I AM ALREADY SERVICE CONNECTED (Provide the name of the disability(ies))

SERVICE CONNECTION FOR NEW DISABILITY(IES) (List your new disability(ies))

REOPENING OF PREVIOUSLY DENIED DISABILITY(IES) (List your previously denied disability(ies))

DISABILITY(IES) SECONDARY TO MY EXISTING SERVICE CONNECTED DISABILITY(IES) (Provide the name of the disability(ies) and your service connected condition(s))

8A. NAME AND LOCATION OF VA MEDICAL CENTER THAT HAS MY RELEVANT TREATMENT RECORDS

8B. NAME AND ADDRESS OF MILITARY FACILITY THAT HAS MY RELEVANT TREATMENT RECORDS

8C. DO YOU HAVE PRIVATE TREATMENT RECORDS?

YES

NO (If "Yes," please attach the treatment records to this form. If you would like to have VA request your private treatment records, please attach a VA Form 21-4142, Authorization and Consent to Release Information to the Department of Veterans Affairs, for each private treatment provider. The form is available at www.va.gov/vaforms.)

9. I WOULD LIKE TO FILE A CLAIM FOR OTHER VA BENEFITS (Check appropriate box)

AID AND ATTENDANCE

AUTOMOBILE ALLOWANCE

OTHER (Specify benefit)

IMPORTANT - If you are certifying that you are married for the purpose of VA benefits, your marriage must be recognized by the place where you and/or your spouse resided at the time of marriage, or where you and/or your spouse resided when you filed your claim (or a later date when you became eligible for benefits) (38 U.S.C. § 103 (c)). Additional guidance on when VA recognizes marriages is available at http://www.va.gov/opa/marriage/.

10.I WOULD LIKE TO FILE A CLAIM FOR ADDITIONAL BENEFITS BECAUSE MY SPOUSE IS SERIOUSLY DISABLED (Please provide spouse's name and social

security number in Items 10A & 10B)

A. SPOUSE'S NAME

B. SPOUSE'S SOCIAL SECURITY NO.

11A. VETERAN'S SIGNATURE (Do NOT print)

11B. DATE SIGNED

PRIVACY ACT NOTICE: The VA will not disclose information collected on this form to any source other than what has been authorized under the Privacy Act of 1974 or Title 38, Code of Federal Regulations 1.576 for routine uses (i.e. civil or criminal law enforcement, congressional communications, epidemiological or research studies, the collection of money owed to the United States, litigation in which the United States is a party or has an interest, the administration of VA programs and delivery of VA benefits, verification of identity and status, and personnel administration) as identified in the VA system of records, 58VA21/22/28 Compensation, Pension, Education and Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Records - VA, published in the Federal Register. Your obligation to respond is required to obtain or retain benefits. Giving us your SSN account information is mandatory. Applicants are required to provide their SSN under Title 38 USC 5101 (c) (1). The VA will not deny an individual benefits for refusing to provide his or her SSN unless the disclosure of the SSN is required by Federal Statute of law in effect prior to January 1, 1975, and still in effect. The requested information is considered relevant and necessary to determine maximum benefits under the law. The responses you submit are considered confidential (38 U.S.C. 5701). Information that you furnish may be utilized in computer matching programs with other Federal or state agencies for the purpose of determining your eligibility to receive VA benefits, as well as to collect any amount owed to the United States by virtue of your participation in any benefit program administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

RESPONDENT BURDEN: We need this information to make an eligibility determination for veterans' filing supplemental compensation claims (38 U.S.C. 5101). Title 38, United States Code, allows us to ask for this information. We estimate that you will need an average of 15 minutes to review the instructions, find the information, and complete this form. VA cannot conduct or sponsor a collection of information unless a valid OMB control number is displayed. You are not required to respond to a collection of information if this number is not displayed. Valid OMB control numbers can be located on the OMB Internet Page at www.reginfo.gov/public/do/PRAMain. If desired, you can call 1-800-827-1000 to get information on where to send comments or suggestions about this form.

VA FORM

21-526B

SUPERSEDES VA FORM 21-526B, MAY 2010,

JUN 2014

 

WHICH WILL NOT BE USED.
Download Va 21 526B PDF Form

Form Data

Fact Number Detail
1 The form is officially titled "Veteran's Supplemental Claim for Compensation."
2 It is identified by the OMB Control Number 2900-0001.
3 The respondent's estimated time to complete the form is 15 minutes.
4 The form's expiration date was 6/30/2017.
5 It includes provisions for filing various types of claims, including increased evaluation of disabilities, service connection for new disabilities, and reopening of previously denied disabilities.
6 Applicants can also file a claim for additional VA benefits like Aid and Attendance, Automobile Allowance, and benefits related to a spouse's severe disability.
7 Governing laws include Title 38, United States Code, specifically sections that address veteran benefits eligibility and the privacy of information provided.

Instructions on Utilizing Va 21 526B

Filling out the VA Form 21-526B is a crucial step for veterans who are seeking supplemental claims for compensation. This form is designed to provide the necessary information to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) so they can make an informed decision regarding your claim. It is important to complete this form as accurately and completely as possible to ensure a smooth process. Below are step-by-step instructions to guide you through each part of the form.

  1. Begin with PART I - VETERAN'S IDENTIFYING INFORMATION.
    • Enter the veteran's full name in item 1.
    • Provide the veteran's Social Security Number in item 2.
    • Fill in the veteran's VA file number in item 3, if known.
    • For item 4, write down the veteran's address, including city, state, and ZIP code.
    • Indicate the veteran's daytime and evening telephone numbers in item 5, with area codes. Include an email address in item 6 if applicable.
  2. Move to PART II - INFORMATION ABOUT CLAIM.
    • In item 7, check the box that applies to your claim (Increased evaluation, service connection for new disability(ies), reopening of previously denied disability(ies), or disability(ies) secondary to existing service-connected condition(s)). Provide the necessary details as requested in the space provided.
    • For item 8A, list the name and location of the VA Medical Center holding relevant treatment records. If applicable, fill in the name and address of the military facility and any private treatment providers in items 8B and 8C. If you have private treatment records, attach them or include VA Form 21-4142 for each provider.
    • Item 9 asks if you would like to file a claim for other VA benefits, such as aid and attendance, automobile allowance, or other specified benefits. Check the appropriate box and provide details if you select "Other".
    • If you are claiming additional benefits due to a seriously disabled spouse, provide your spouse's name and Social Security number in item 10.
  3. Finally, in the signature section, the veteran must sign and date the form in items 11A and 11B.

After completing the VA Form 21-526B, review it for accuracy and completeness. Missing or incorrect information can delay the processing of your claim. Once the form is completed, submit it to the Department of Veterans Affairs as directed. The VA will review your supplemental claim and notify you of its decision. Throughout this process, it's important to keep a copy of your completed form and any supporting documentation for your records.

Obtain Answers on Va 21 526B

  1. What is the VA Form 21-526B?

    VA Form 21-526B, or the Veteran's Supplemental Claim for Compensation, is a document that veterans use to claim additional benefits for service-related disabilities or conditions. This may include filing for new disabilities, seeking an increase in the evaluation of existing disabilities, reopening previously denied disabilities, or claiming for disabilities secondary to service-connected conditions.

  2. How long does it take to complete the VA Form 21-526B?

    The estimated time to complete this form is 15 minutes. This includes the time it takes to read instructions, find necessary information, and fill out the form. However, the actual time may vary depending on individual circumstances and the complexity of one's claim.

  3. What information do I need to provide on the VA Form 21-526B?

    You are required to provide personal identifying information, including your name, Social Security number, VA file number, address, and contact information. Additionally, you must detail the claims you're filing, such as increased evaluations, new service connections, or reopening previously denied claims. If applicable, information about relevant treatment records and additional benefits for aid and attendance, automobile allowance, or benefits for having a seriously disabled spouse should be included.

  4. Is submitting my Social Security Number (SSN) on VA Form 21-526B mandatory?

    Yes, providing your Social Security Number (SSN) is mandatory. The requirement is based on Title 38 USC 5101(c)(1), which requires applicants to provide their SSN. Your benefits won't be denied for refusing to provide your SSN unless a Federal Statute requires it for a law in effect before January 1, 1975, and it is still in effect.

  5. What should I do if I have private treatment records relevant to my VA Form 21-526B claim?

    If you have private treatment records relevant to your claim, you can attach the treatment records to the VA Form 21-526B. Alternatively, if you want VA to request your private treatment records on your behalf, you should attach a completed VA Form 21-4142, Authorization and Consent to Release Information to the Department of Veterans Affairs, for each private treatment provider. This ensures the VA can obtain all necessary information to assess your claim properly.

Common mistakes

Filling out VA Form 21-526B, the Veteran's Supplemental Claim for Compensation, is a crucial step in seeking additional benefits for veterans. However, the process can be fraught with pitfalls that can lead to delays or even denials. Understanding these common mistakes will help ensure that your submission is complete and accurate, speeding up the VA's decision-making process.

  1. Not Providing Complete Identifying Information: The form requires detailed personal information, including the veteran's full name, social security number, VA file number, and contact details. A common mistake is leaving sections of this part blank or providing incomplete information. Make sure every field is filled accurately to prevent any processing delays.

  2. Failure to Specify the Type of Claim: Part II asks claimants to specify the type of claim being filed, such as claims for increased evaluation, service connection for new disabilities, or reopening of previously denied disabilities. A glaring error is not checking the appropriate boxes or failing to provide the necessary details about the disabilities in question. Clearly identify the nature of your claim and list out all relevant disabilities to streamline the review process.

  3. Forgetting to Attach Relevant Medical Records: Question 8C addresses whether you have private treatment records. It's critical to attach all relevant medical documentation to support your claim. Some applicants forget to attach these records or assume the VA will automatically retrieve them. To avoid unnecessary delays, attach all pertinent treatment records, or if you prefer the VA to request them, include a completed VA Form 21-4142 for each private treatment provider.

  4. Overlooking the Need for Supporting Documentation for Additional Benefits: If you're claiming benefits due to a spouse's severe disability, information about your spouse is required in Part II, Item 10. It's a common mistake to indicate a wish to claim such benefits without providing the spouse's identifying information and supporting documentation. Failure to provide comprehensive information, including your spouse's name and social security number, will hinder the VA's ability to process this aspect of your claim.

For veterans navigating the complexities of submitting a supplemental claim for compensation, attention to detail is paramount. Taking time to thoroughly review and accurately complete the VA Form 21-526B can significantly impact the success of your claim. Remember, the goal is to provide the VA with a clear, complete picture of why the additional benefits are warranted, and avoiding these oversights is essential.

Documents used along the form

When veterans file a VA Form 21-526B for supplemental claims for compensation, they often need to provide additional documentation to support their claim. These documents are critical for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to make an informed decision regarding a veteran's claim for disability benefits or changes to their current benefits. The documents often used alongside the VA Form 21-526B cover a wide range of information, including medical evidence, personal statements, and other forms that may enhance a veteran's claim or provide necessary permissions for the VA to obtain private medical records.

  • VA Form 21-4142 - Authorization and Consent to Release Information to the VA: This form grants the VA permission to request private medical records on behalf of the veteran. It is crucial for veterans who have received treatment outside the VA system and need these records to support their claim.
  • VA Form 21-0781 - Statement in Support of Claim for Service Connection for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Veterans filing for PTSD benefits use this form to provide details about the stressor events that contributed to their condition. It helps in establishing a service connection for PTSD claims.
  • VA Form 21-8940 - Veteran's Application for Increased Compensation Based on Unemployability: This form is used by veterans who are seeking to receive disability compensation at the 100% rate under the Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) benefit due to their inability to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation.
  • VA Form 21-2680 - Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance: For veterans applying for additional benefits due to being housebound or in need of aid and attendance, this form provides the necessary medical evidence.
  • DD Form 214 - Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty: This document is essential for establishing a veteran's service history, conditions of discharge, and periods of service. It is critical for almost all types of VA claims.
  • Medical Records - Pertinent medical evidence from both VA and private healthcare providers: These records should include any diagnoses, treatments, and prognoses relevant to the claimed conditions. They are vital in establishing a medical nexus for service connection.
  • Buddy Statements or Personal Statements: Often termed as "Lay Evidence," these are written statements from fellow service members, family, or friends that can corroborate the veteran's account of how their service-connected disability affects their daily life, or provide additional context to their service when seeking to establish a connection for disabilities like PTSD.

Each of these documents plays a unique role in the claims process, offering a more comprehensive view of the veteran's situation and enhancing the substantiation of the claims made on the VA Form 21-526B. For veterans, understanding what each document is and how it aids in their claim process can be pivotal in successfully navigating the VA compensation system.

Similar forms

  • The VA Form 21-526EZ "Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits" is similar in that it also allows veterans to apply for disability compensation. However, 21-526EZ is used for the initial claim, not a supplemental claim.

  • VA Form 21-22, "Appointment of Veterans Service Organization as Claimant's Representative," parallels the VA Form 21-526B in its function to assist in managing VA benefits and claims, allowing veterans to designate representation for their claims.

  • VA Form 21-686c, "Declaration of Status of Dependents," is used to update dependency information, which can affect benefits similarly to how changes in the status or condition of a spouse's disability might influence claims on Form 21-526B.

  • VA Form 21-4142, "Authorization and Consent to Release Information to the Department of Veterans Affairs," works in conjunction with Form 21-526B by allowing the VA to obtain private medical records necessary for supporting a claim.

  • VA Form 10-10EZ, "Application for Health Benefits," shares the goal of improving Veterans' access to benefits, similar to how VA Form 21-526B facilitates supplemental claims for compensation.

  • The VA Form 20-0995, "Decision Review Request: Supplemental Claim," is quite similar in its objective to the VA Form 21-526B, as both forms are designed to provide veterans an opportunity to submit new or additional evidence for consideration in their claim.

  • VA Form 21-4502, "Application for Automobile or Other Conveyance and Adaptive Equipment," mirrors the section in VA Form 21-526B regarding claims for automobile allowance, allowing for benefits under specific circumstances.

  • VA Form 21-8940, "Veteran's Application for Increased Compensation Based on Unemployability," relates to Form 21-526B's purpose of allowing veterans to claim additional benefits due to circumstances affecting their employability.

  • VA Form 21-0781, "Statement in Support of Claim for Service Connection for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)," is similar in nature to VA Form 21-526B as it provides a way for veterans to supply information needed for a specific type of compensation claim.

  • VA Form 21-0958, "Notice of Disagreement," although used to initiate an appeal rather than a supplemental claim, is connected to the process involving VA Form 21-526B by being a subsequent step in the claims process if a veteran disagrees with a decision.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the VA Form 21-526B, there are several do's and don'ts to keep in mind to ensure your supplemental claim for compensation is processed efficiently.

    Do:
  • Read the Privacy Act Notice and Respondent Burden Information carefully before starting the form to understand how your information will be used and protected.
  • Ensure all parts of the form are filled out completely, including your identifying information and the specific details about your claim.
  • Check all that apply in sections regarding the type of claim you are filing, such as increased evaluation, service connection, or reopening of previously denied disabilities.
  • Attach any relevant private treatment records if you answer "Yes" to having them, or attach a VA Form 21-4142 for each private treatment provider for VA to obtain the records.
  • Clearly specify any other VA benefits you are claiming, such as Aid and Attendance or Automobile Allowance.
  • Sign and date the form in the designated area at the end to certify your claim.
    Don't:
  • Leave any section blank. If a section does not apply, write "N/A" to indicate this.
  • Forget to include the name and location of VA and military medical centers that have your relevant treatment records.
  • Overlook the need to attach additional forms or documents that support your claim, such as marriage certificates or private medical records.
  • Provide incomplete or inaccurate contact information, which could delay the processing of your claim.
  • Attempt to file the form without reviewing the expiration date at the top to ensure you are using the most current version.

Misconceptions

There are several misconceptions about the VA Form 21-526B, which is crucial for veterans seeking supplemental claims for compensation. Understanding these misconceptions can help in accurately completing the form and ensuring veterans receive the benefits they are entitled to.

  • Misconception 1: Only veterans with previously denied claims can use VA Form 21-526B.

    In truth, this form is not limited to reopening previously denied claims. Veterans can also use it to file for increased evaluation of disabilities for which they are already service-connected, service connection for new disabilities, or for disabilities secondary to existing service-connected conditions.

  • Misconception 2: You need to submit all medical records with the VA Form 21-526B.

    While including relevant medical records can support your claim, it’s not mandatory to submit them with the form. Veterans can simply indicate where their treatment records can be found, and the VA will obtain these records. Private treatment records can also be requested by VA if a VA Form 21-4142 is submitted alongside.

  • Misconception 3: The form is only for physical injuries or conditions.

    VA Form 21-526B is designed to cover a wide range of claims, including mental health conditions. Veterans seeking compensation for mental health issues related to their service can and should use this form.

  • Misconception 4: Filing this form guarantees an increase in benefits.

    Submission of VA Form 21-526B starts the review process but does not guarantee an increase in benefits. The decision is based on the evaluation of the provided evidence and how it correlates with VA regulations.

  • Misconception 5: A lawyer is needed to complete VA Form 21-526B.

    While seeking advice from a legal advisor or a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) can be beneficial, it's not a requirement. The form is designed to be filled out by veterans themselves. Guidance is available through the VA and various veterans service organizations.

  • Misconception 6: The form must be filled out in one sitting.

    Gathering all the necessary information to accurately complete the form can take time. Veterans can take the time needed to ensure that all details are correct and comprehensive before submission. There’s no requirement to complete it in one go.

  • Misconception 7: Once denied, you cannot file VA Form 21-526B again.

    Veterans can resubmit VA Form 21-526B if their initial claim is denied or if they disagree with the compensation decision. This allows veterans to present new evidence or make a case for reevaluation.

Understanding these key points helps in navigating the process of submitting a supplemental claim and ensures veterans are better informed about their rights and options.

Key takeaways

Understanding the VA Form 21-526B, a supplemental claim for compensation, is crucial for veterans seeking to navigate the complexities of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefit applications. This form plays a vital role in allowing veterans to claim for increased evaluation of existing service-connected disabilities, connection for new disabilities, reopening of previously denied disabilities, and compensation for disabilities secondary to service-connected conditions. Here are four key takeaways to consider:

  • Accuracy is paramount: When filling out the form, providing accurate and complete information in all sections is critical. This includes the veteran's identifying information, details about the claim such as the nature of the disability or disabilities being claimed, and relevant treatment records. Errors or omissions can delay the processing of the claim.
  • Submission of supporting documents: For a claim to be adequately reviewed, it may be necessary to attach supporting documents. This could include medical records from both VA and private treatment providers, and, if applicable, a VA Form 21-4142, Authorization and Consent to Release Information to the Department of Veterans Affairs, for each private treatment provider. Ensuring that these documents are attached can expedite the review process.
  • Significance of the Privacy Act Notice and Respondent Burden Information: Before completing the form, understanding the implications of the Privacy Act Notice and the Respondent Burden Information is essential. These sections outline how the VA uses the information provided, the confidentiality of responses, and the estimated time to complete the form. This information underlines the importance of the data being requested and how it impacts the determination of benefits.
  • Deadline awareness and form expiration: Being aware of the form's expiration date and ensuring submission before this date is key. The VA periodically updates forms, and using an outdated form can result in processing delays. Additionally, understanding any deadlines related to the claim itself helps prevent missing critical windows for benefit eligibility.

Effectively navigating the VA Form 21-526B requires attention to detail, thoroughness in compiling supporting documentation, and an understanding of the form's instructions and privacy implications. By ensuring accuracy, completeness, and timeliness in submission, veterans can better advocate for their entitlements and streamline the claim process.

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