When a veteran’s child turns 18, VA automatically removes them from the veteran’s disability pay. They stay on only if they’re in school (ages 18–23) or became unable to support themselves before 18. The good news is that you can keep a student on by filing VA Form 21-674, and you can file before the 18th birthday, while your child is still in high school. File within one year of the 18th birthday and VA pays back to that date. Once college is on the horizon, families often have more than one option: keeping the child on the veteran’s pay, Chapter 35 (DEA), the Fry Scholarship, a transferred GI Bill or state tuition waivers. Some of these can’t be used together, and once a child gets their first Chapter 35 payment, the extra amount for them on the veteran’s pay stops for good. This page explains when a child comes off, how to sign them up, how much each option pays, how to choose, and what happens with health care, helpless children and survivors. Veterans Claims Education provides free educational information only and does not assist with or file claims. Questions or something you’re looking for? Email info@veteransclaimsedu.com.