DIC, Survivors Pension, and Accrued Benefits
Apply for one or more survivor benefits through the current VA application.
21P-534EZ
Survivors & Family
What this form does
Apply for one or more survivor benefits through the current VA application.
Applies for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), Survivors Pension, and accrued benefits.
Official VA title: Application for DIC, Survivors Pension, and/or Accrued Benefits
VA revision August 29, 2025 · Links verified against VA.gov August 10, 2026
Use it when: When an eligible surviving spouse, child, or parent is applying for DIC, Survivors Pension, accrued benefits, or a combination VA allows on this application.
Preparation route
How to use 21P-534EZ
Every preparation step stays open so you can scan the whole job before starting.
Do now · 01
Before you start
- Estimated time
- 45-60 minutes
Use this form when: When an eligible surviving spouse, child, or parent is applying for DIC, Survivors Pension, accrued benefits, or a combination VA allows on this application.
Gather · 02
Gather your documents
Required
- Veteran's death certificate
- Veteran's DD-214 — Proof of the veteran's military service.
- Marriage certificate — For surviving spouse claims.
Helpful when available
- 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.
Waypoint · 03
Complete the form
- 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
Waypoint · 04
Avoid common mistakes
- Using an old 21P-534 link instead of the current 21P-534EZ application
- Skipping a benefit section that may apply to the survivor
- 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
Go next · 05
Submit the form
Available methods
- Online
- Mail to
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Pension Intake Center, PO Box 5365, Janesville, WI 53547-5365
- Submission note
- Apply online for fastest processing. A VSO can help you complete this form at no cost.
Field note
Apply promptly and use the current VA.gov instructions. Timing can affect when approved benefits begin, and the evidence needed depends on which survivor benefit you claim.
Continue the route
Forms are just one piece. Make sure your full claim is solid.
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