Adding and Removing Dependents

Rated 30% or higher? VA pays you more each month for a spouse, children (including stepchildren and children 18 to 23 in school) and dependent parents. That extra pay only starts after you tell VA, though. This free guide shows what each dependent adds in 2026. It explains the one-year rule that can pay you back to the date of a marriage, a birth or your new rating. It also lists exactly which documents and forms to send (VA Form 21-686c, 21-674 and 21P-509). You’ll learn how long it takes, what happens when a child turns 18, how to answer VA’s dependent verification letter, and why reporting a divorce, death or a child leaving school right away keeps you from owing VA money. Use the free tool to see what to file for your situation. Every rule links to its official VA source.