VA Form 21-686c
Add/Remove Dependents
Add your spouse, kids, or parents to your benefits. Can increase your monthly payment.
Add/Remove Dependents
In Plain English
Add your spouse, kids, or parents to your benefits. Can increase your monthly payment.
Adds or removes dependents from your VA record to receive additional compensation at 30% rating or higher.
Step-by-Step Guide
How to file 21-686c
When to use this form
Whenever you get married, have a child, adopt a child, or have a change in dependent status. Must be 30%+ rated to receive dependent pay.
Required
- ✓Marriage certificate
For adding a spouse.
- ✓Birth certificate or adoption decree
For adding children.
Recommended (if applicable)
- +School enrollment verification (VA Form 21-674)
Required for children aged 18-23 who are attending school full-time.
- +Divorce decree
If removing a former spouse.
You'll need to provide
- ✓Dependent's name, date of birth, and SSN
- ✓Marriage certificate (for spouse)
- ✓Birth certificate or adoption decree (for children)
- ✓School enrollment verification (for children 18-23)
- ✕Not adding dependents — this is free money if you're rated 30%+
- ✕Forgetting to remove ex-spouse after divorce
- ✕Not re-certifying school enrollment for children 18-23
- ✕Waiting months after a life event to file
Mail to
Department of Veterans Affairs, Claims Intake Center, PO Box 4444, Janesville, WI 53547-4444
File online for fastest processing. The VA will back-pay from the date of the event (marriage, birth) if filed within a year.
Pro Tip
File this immediately after marriage, birth, or adoption. Dependent pay can add hundreds of dollars per month to your compensation.
Related Forms
You might also need
TDIU Application
Claim you can't work due to your disabilities. Can get you paid at the 100% rate even if your rating is lower.
Employment Questionnaire
The VA checking if you're still unemployable. Required if you receive TDIU.
Aid & Attendance Examination
Apply for extra help if you need daily assistance due to your disabilities.
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