VA Form 21P-534EZ
DIC Application (Simplified)
Streamlined version of the DIC application. Covers DIC, death pension, and accrued benefits in one form.
DIC Application (Simplified)
In Plain English
Streamlined version of the DIC application. Covers DIC, death pension, and accrued benefits in one form.
Simplified application for DIC, death pension, and accrued benefits — combines multiple survivor benefit applications into one form.
Step-by-Step Guide
How to file 21P-534EZ
When to use this form
For almost all survivor benefit claims. This one form covers Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), death pension, and accrued benefits — no need to file three separate forms.
Required
- ✓Veteran's death certificate
- ✓Veteran's DD-214
Proof of the veteran's military service.
- ✓Marriage certificate
For surviving spouse claims.
Recommended (if applicable)
- +Birth certificates for dependent children
- +Veteran's VA rating decision (if applicable)
Helps establish service connection if the death was related to service-connected conditions.
- +Medical evidence linking death to service (if applicable)
Doctor's statement or medical records if the cause of death is being claimed as service-connected.
You'll need to provide
- ✓Veteran's service dates, branch, and SSN
- ✓Cause of death and whether it was service-connected
- ✓Your relationship to the veteran
- ✓Your income and net worth information
- ✓Whether you have dependent children
- ✕Filing the longer 21P-534 instead of this simplified version
- ✕Not applying for accrued benefits (money the VA owed the veteran at time of death)
- ✕Waiting too long to file — benefits may be back-paid to the date of death if filed within a year
- ✕Not including all dependent children on the application
Mail to
Department of Veterans Affairs, Pension Intake Center, PO Box 5365, Janesville, WI 53547-5365
Apply online for fastest processing. A VSO can help you complete this form at no cost.
Pro Tip
File as soon as possible after the veteran's passing. If you file within 1 year of death, benefits can be back-paid to the first of the month following the death. This single form covers three separate benefits.
Which Form Do I Need?
Both are DIC applications. Which do I use?
DIC Application
Use this when
- •You have a complex estate situation or your VSO specifically advises it
- •Rarely needed for most survivors
DIC Application (Simplified)
Use this when
- •Use this for almost all DIC, death pension, and accrued benefit claims
- •One form covers three separate benefit types
- •Most surviving spouses and children should use this
Our recommendation
In nearly all cases, file 21P-534EZ. It combines three separate survivor benefit applications into one and is processed fastest by the VA.
Continue Your Research
Forms are just one piece. Make sure your full claim is solid.
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100% P&T Veterans
“I'm 100% P&T — what else am I entitled to?”
Family Members
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Survivor & Gold Star Benefits
“I lost my veteran. What am I entitled to?”
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“I was Guard or Reserve — do I qualify?”
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