What VA Form Do You Need to Fill Out to Apply for Educational Benefits for Dependents?

Many veterans and active service members wish to support their families in accessing education through VA-provided benefits. To ensure dependents receive these benefits, veterans or their family members need to complete specific VA forms.

What Is VA Educational Assistance for Dependents?

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers educational benefits to the dependents of veterans through several programs, including the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) Program and the Post-9/11 GI Bill® transfer option. These programs provide financial assistance to eligible dependents, which can cover tuition, fees, housing, and other education-related expenses.

Key Programs for Dependents

1. DEA Program (Chapter 35): Designed for dependents of veterans who are disabled or deceased due to service-related issues.
2. Transfer of Post-9/11 GI Bill® Benefits: Allows eligible service members to transfer unused educational benefits to their spouse or children.

Which VA Form Should You Use to Apply?

The primary VA form used to apply for educational benefits for dependents is VA Form 22-5490, officially titled the Dependents’ Application for VA Education Benefits. This form is used for the DEA program and other applicable benefits, helping dependents apply for financial aid to pursue educational goals.

VA Form 22-5490 Details

• Purpose: VA Form 22-5490 allows the dependent of an eligible veteran to apply for education benefits, including DEA.
• Who Uses It: This form is for dependents such as spouses, children, and surviving family members of veterans.
• How to Submit: Form 22-5490 can be submitted online through the VA’s eBenefits portal or completed as a paper application and mailed.

Eligibility Criteria for Educational Benefits

Before completing the form, it is essential to verify eligibility. Eligibility depends on factors such as the veteran’s service record and the relationship between the applicant and the veteran.

Basic Eligibility for the DEA Program (Chapter 35)

1. Spouses and Children of veterans who have a permanent and total disability due to a service-connected condition.
2. Surviving Family Members of veterans who died due to a service-connected disability.
3. Dependents of veterans who are listed as Missing in Action (MIA) or prisoners of war.

Eligibility for Post-9/11 GI Bill® Transfer

To transfer Post-9/11 GI Bill® benefits to dependents, service members must meet additional requirements:

• Minimum Service Requirements: Generally, the service member must have at least six years of active service to be eligible to transfer benefits.
• Continued Service Agreement: They must also commit to additional service as determined by the Department of Defense.

How to Complete VA Form 22-5490?

Completing VA Form 22-5490 is a straightforward process, but it is important to be accurate with the information provided to avoid delays.

1. Basic Information: Begin by filling out the applicant’s full name, Social Security number, and contact information.
2. Veteran’s Information: Include the veteran’s full name, Social Security number, and details regarding service history.
3. Type of Benefit: Indicate which type of benefit you are applying for, usually the DEA program for spouses or children.
4. Education Information: Describe the educational institution and the program in which the dependent plans to enroll.

The completed form can be submitted online through eBenefits or printed and mailed to the VA regional office.

How Long Does It Take to Process?

After submitting the application, the VA typically takes between 30 to 45 days to process the form and determine eligibility. If additional information is required, the VA may contact the applicant, which could extend processing time.

What to Do If Processing Is Delayed?

If processing exceeds 45 days, contact your regional VA office for an update. It can be helpful to track the status of your application online if you submitted it via eBenefits.

Additional Forms That May Be Required

In some cases, additional documentation or forms may be required based on specific circumstances:

1. VA Form 22-5495 – Dependents’ Request for Change of Program or Place of Training: Use this form if a dependent needs to update their educational program or institution after initially being approved for benefits.
2. VA Form 21-686c – Declaration of Status of Dependents: This form may be necessary to verify the dependent relationship with the veteran.

Important Deadlines and Time Limits

Each educational benefit program has specific timelines and deadlines:

• DEA Program (Chapter 35): Generally, eligible dependents have 10 years from the date of eligibility to use these benefits, though some cases may extend this period.
• Post-9/11 GI Bill®: Benefits typically expire 15 years after the last period of active duty for the veteran. For transferred benefits, eligible dependents should confirm any expiration with the VA or Department of Defense.

Tips for a Successful Application

1. Ensure Eligibility: Double-check eligibility requirements before submitting the application.
2. Accurate Information: Any errors or omissions in the application can cause delays.
3. Track Application Status: If you submit online, use the VA’s eBenefits portal to monitor your application’s progress.
4. Prepare Supporting Documents: Have documents like proof of relationship, birth certificates, or marriage certificates ready if the VA requests additional verification.

Conclusion

VA Form 22-5490 is essential for dependents seeking educational benefits under programs like DEA. Understanding the eligibility requirements, completing the form accurately, and meeting deadlines are all crucial to ensuring a smooth application process. By using the resources available through the VA and staying informed on requirements, dependents can effectively access the financial support they need to pursue education.

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