VA Form 21-674: School Attendance Benefits Guide

VA Form 21-674: School Attendance Benefits Guide – If you’re a veteran, surviving spouse, or dependent receiving VA benefits and have a child between the ages of 18 and 23 attending school, understanding VA Form 21-674 is essential to maintain or increase your monthly compensation. This form allows eligible dependents to continue receiving benefits past age 18 while pursuing education.

What Is VA Form 21-674?

VA Form 21-674, officially titled “Request for Approval of School Attendance,” is a Veterans Affairs document used to verify a child’s school enrollment and determine continued entitlement to VA benefits. It applies primarily to disability compensation, pension, and survivors benefits where a dependent child aged 18-23 is attending an approved school full-time.

The current revision date is November 2024, with an expiration date of November 30, 2027. The form helps the VA confirm that the child remains a qualifying dependent.

Who Should Use VA Form 21-674?

This form should be completed by the person receiving or claiming benefits (typically the veteran or surviving spouse) for a veteran’s child who is:

  • At least 18 years old but under 23 years old
  • Attending an approved school or training program full-time
  • Unmarried (marriage generally ends eligibility)

The child may complete the form themselves only if they have reached the age of majority (usually 18) and are entitled to receive direct payment of benefits.

Note: The VA automatically removes children from benefit rolls at age 18 unless this form (and supporting evidence) is submitted to verify ongoing school attendance.

Eligibility Requirements for School Attendance Benefits

To qualify for continued dependency benefits via VA Form 21-674:

  • The child must be enrolled in a VA-approved course of instruction (high school, college, vocational training, etc.).
  • Attendance must generally be full-time, though specific rules vary by benefit type.
  • The child must not be receiving duplicative federal educational assistance (such as Chapter 35 DEA in certain cases) or be wholly supported by the federal government (e.g., service academies).
  • Benefits may continue until the child turns 23, marries, leaves school, or other disqualifying events occur.

Submit the form promptly—ideally within 60 days before or after the child’s 18th birthday—to avoid interruption in payments.

How to Fill Out VA Form 21-674 Step by Step?

Key sections include:

  1. Section I: Veteran/Claimant’s identification information (name, VA file number, contact details).
  2. Section II: Student’s identification (name, SSN, date of birth, marital status, address).
  3. Section III: School attendance details, including start/end dates, accreditation, and any federal funding questions.
  4. Section IV: Student’s income and net worth (required mainly for pension claims).
  5. Section VI: Certification and signature.

Attach proof of enrollment, such as a letter from the school verifying full-time status, start/end dates, and accreditation. Use separate forms for each child.

Where and How to Submit VA Form 21-674?

You have two main options:

  1. Online (Recommended): Start with VA Form 21-686c (Application to Add/Remove Dependents) and select the option for adding a school-attending child 18-23. This combines the process efficiently.
  2. By Mail: Download and mail the completed PDF to the appropriate Evidence Intake Center or Pension Intake Center in Janesville, WI.

Download VA Form 21-674 PDF Here

Supporting Documents and Evidence Needed

Commonly required attachments:

  • School certification of enrollment and full-time status (VA Form 21-674b may be used for verification).
  • Proof of relationship to the veteran (birth certificate, adoption papers, etc., if not already on file).
  • Income information if claiming pension benefits.

Common Reasons for Denial or Delay

Delays often occur due to incomplete forms, missing school verification, or failure to report changes like marriage or dropping below full-time status. Always notify the VA promptly of any changes using VA Form 21-674b for updates.

Frequently Asked Questions About VA Form 21-674

When should I submit the form?

Submit several months before the child’s 18th birthday or as soon as enrollment is confirmed for ongoing students.

Can benefits continue past age 23?

Generally no, unless the child became permanently incapable of self-support before age 18.

Is high school attendance eligible?

Yes, full-time high school enrollment typically qualifies.

Additional Resources and Official VA Links

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit official VA pages:

Always rely on va.gov for primary guidance. Contact VA at 800-827-1000 or use Ask VA for assistance.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for official VA advice. Rules can change; verify details with the Department of Veterans Affairs.