VA Form 21P-0571: Exclude Children’s Income for VA Pension

VA Form 21P-0571: Exclude Children’s Income for VA Pension – Veterans and surviving spouses receiving VA pension benefits may qualify to exclude some or all of their dependent children’s income from countable income calculations. VA Form 21P-0571 helps establish this exclusion when the child’s income is not reasonably available or counting it would cause financial hardship.

This article explains eligibility, how to complete the form, submission steps, and key tips for USA veterans and families.

What Is VA Form 21P-0571?

VA Form 21P-0571, titled Application for Exclusion of Children’s Income, is an official Veterans Affairs form used by pension recipients. VA can exclude all or part of a dependent child’s income when determining the pension rate if the income is unavailable to the claimant or if including it would create hardship.

The form is revised as of May 2024 (OMB Control No. 2900-0510, expires 05/31/2027) and applies mainly to Improved Pension programs for veterans or surviving spouses with dependent children.

Who Should Use VA Form 21P-0571?

You should file this form if:

  • You receive (or are applying for) VA pension benefits.
  • You have dependent children whose income VA currently counts.
  • The child’s income is not reasonably available to you (e.g., paid to someone else or the child lives elsewhere).
  • Counting the income would cause financial hardship for your household.

This is especially relevant for low-income wartime veterans or surviving spouses where family expenses exceed available resources. VA reviews each case individually based on the details provided.

Eligibility for Children’s Income Exclusion in VA Pension

VA considers two main grounds for exclusion:

  1. Income Not Reasonably Available — Examples include income paid directly to the child who does not reside with you or support you financially.
  2. Hardship — When including the income would leave your household unable to meet basic living expenses.

You must provide evidence of household expenses, income details, and explanations. Medical expenses are reported separately on the annual Eligibility Verification Report (EVR), not on this form.

How to Download VA Form 21P-0571?

Download the latest version directly from the official VA source:

Download VA Form 21P-0571 PDF

You can also access it via the VA forms page: va.gov/forms/21p-0571/

Always use the most current version to avoid processing delays.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing VA Form 21P-0571

Veteran and Claimant Information (Items 1-5)

Provide the veteran’s full name, VA file number, claimant’s details (if different), Social Security numbers, and current address.

Child Information (Items 6-13)

For each child:

  • Name, date of birth, and SSN.
  • Indicate if their income is reasonably available (Yes/No).
  • If “No,” explain the specific income type, payee, residency details, and additional reasons why it’s unavailable.

Household Expenses (Item 14)

Report average monthly household expenditures for the past 12 months (rent/mortgage, food, utilities, transportation, etc.). Do not include medical expenses here.

Additional Questions and Remarks (Items 15-17)

  • Note any expected changes in expenses or household income.
  • Use the remarks section for extra explanations or attach continuation sheets.

Certification and Signature (Item 18)

Sign and date the form. False statements can result in penalties.

How to Submit VA Form 21P-0571?

Mail the completed form to your regional Pension Management Center or the address listed on related VA correspondence. You can also submit it with other pension documentation or in response to a VA request.

For fastest processing, ensure all supporting details are clear. Contact VA at 1-800-827-1000 or via va.gov/contact-us for questions.

Common Reasons for Approval or Denial

Approvals often occur when:

  • The child does not live in the household and income isn’t contributed.
  • High household expenses demonstrate hardship.

Denials may happen if documentation is incomplete or evidence shows the income is available and does not cause hardship. You can provide additional evidence or appeal decisions.

  • VA Form 21P-527EZ: Application for Veterans Pension.
  • Eligibility Verification Report (EVR): Annual income/expense update where medical expenses are reported.
  • VA Form 21P-0969: Income and Asset Statement (if required for complex cases).

Exclusions can increase your monthly pension payment by lowering countable income.

Tips for a Successful Application

  • Be thorough and accurate with numbers and explanations.
  • Keep records of expenses and income for the prior 12 months.
  • File promptly if your situation changes.
  • Consult a VA-accredited representative, attorney, or Veterans Service Officer for complex cases.
  • Check current pension income limits on va.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I exclude all of my child’s income?
Possibly, if VA determines it is unavailable or causes hardship. Partial exclusions are also common.

Is this form only for veterans?
No — surviving spouses receiving pension can also use it.

How long does processing take?
Times vary; submit all required information to avoid delays.

Do I need to refile every year?
Submit when requesting exclusion or if circumstances change. Annual EVRs help maintain your award.

For the most up-to-date guidance, visit official VA resources and consult directly with the VA.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Always verify details with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.