VA Form 21P-8924: How to Apply for REPS Benefits – If you are the surviving spouse or unmarried child of a veteran who died on active duty before August 13, 1981, or from a service-connected disability incurred or aggravated before that date, you may qualify for monthly benefits under the Restored Entitlement Program for Survivors (REPS).
VA Form 21P-8924 is the official application used to claim these specialized benefits. This comprehensive guide covers eligibility, how to complete and submit the form, required information, processing expectations, and practical tips to help eligible survivors in the United States navigate the process successfully.
What Is the Restored Entitlement Program for Survivors (REPS)?
REPS is a VA benefit program established under Public Law 97-377 to restore certain survivor entitlements that were terminated by the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981. It provides a special monthly allowance to qualifying surviving spouses and children of veterans who meet strict pre-August 13, 1981, criteria.
Important limitations:
- Service in the Public Health Service or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration generally does not qualify.
- This is a narrow, legacy program. Most modern survivor claims use VA Form 21P-534EZ for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), Survivors Pension, or accrued benefits.
Who Is Eligible for REPS Benefits?
Eligibility is tightly defined by the veteran’s date and circumstances of death plus the survivor’s current situation.
Veteran Requirements (must be true):
- Died while on active duty before August 13, 1981, or
- Died from a disability incurred in or aggravated by active duty before August 13, 1981.
Surviving Spouse Eligibility:
- Married to the veteran at the time of death.
- Has not remarried.
- Benefits generally begin when the youngest child in the spouse’s care reaches age 16.
- Benefits end when that child reaches age 18 (even if still in high school).
Child Eligibility:
- Unmarried child of the veteran.
- Between the ages of 18 and 21.
- Attending a postsecondary school (college or above, not high school) full time in the United States.
Note: An 18-year-old still in high school is not eligible for REPS but may qualify for an extension of Social Security student benefits. Contact the Social Security Administration for that option.
Download the Official VA Form 21P-8924
The current version is May 2024 (OMB Approved No. 2900-0390).
Download the form here:
You can also access it directly from the VA website:
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing VA Form 21P-8924
The form is only 3 pages and takes about 20 minutes to complete. Fill it out neatly in ink or complete it online before printing.
Section I – Veteran’s Information
Enter the veteran’s full name, Social Security Number or VA file number, branch of service, and exact date of death.
Section II – Claimant’s Information
Provide your (the applicant’s) details: name, date of birth, SSN, current mailing address, phone, email, relationship to the veteran (Spouse or Child), and marital status. Surviving spouses must include marriage and termination dates if applicable.
Section III – Claimant’s Employment and Wage Information (Required only for surviving spouses when the youngest child is 16 but not yet 18)
Report employment status, last year’s earnings, and estimates for the current and next calendar year. Be as accurate as possible.
Section IV – Remarks
Use this space for any additional explanations or attach extra sheets if needed (include veteran’s name and VA file number on attachments).
Section V – Certification and Signature
Sign and date the form. This certifies that all information is true and correct. False statements carry penalties.
Section VI – VA Certification (Completed by VA)
This section is for VA use only.
Practical Tips for Completing the Form:
- Estimate earnings even if you don’t have exact figures.
- Report any changes in your situation (address, marital status, school attendance, income) promptly by calling 1-800-827-1000.
- If applying as a child, clearly indicate full-time postsecondary enrollment.
- Keep a copy of everything you submit.
Required Supporting Information and Documents
While the form itself focuses on applicant details, VA may request additional evidence to verify eligibility, such as:
- Proof of the veteran’s death and service connection (often already in VA records).
- Marriage certificate (for surviving spouses).
- Birth certificates (to establish parent-child relationship).
- School enrollment verification (for children aged 18–21).
- Any prior VA award letters or DIC documentation.
VA will notify you if more information is needed.
Where and How to Submit VA Form 21P-8924?
You have two main submission options:
- Mail the completed form to:
VA Regional Office
400 S. 18th St.
St. Louis, MO 63103-2271 - Upload online (recommended for faster processing):
Use the official VA upload portal at
You can also check status or manage your claim through your VA.gov account.
What Happens After You Submit the Application?
- VA will review your form and any supporting evidence.
- You may receive a request for additional information or a decision letter.
- If approved, benefits are paid monthly. The start date is generally tied to when VA receives your claim or when you first became eligible.
- Processing times vary; contact the VA National Call Center at 1-800-827-1000 (TTY: 711) for status updates.
- Always report changes in circumstances immediately to avoid overpayments.
How REPS Benefits Differ from DIC and Survivors Pension?
| Benefit | Primary Form | Key Eligibility Focus | Typical Audience |
|---|---|---|---|
| REPS | VA Form 21P-8924 | Pre-Aug 13, 1981 deaths; specific age/school triggers for spouses & children | Narrow legacy cases |
| DIC | VA Form 21P-534EZ | Service-connected death (any era) | Most surviving spouses & children |
| Survivors Pension | VA Form 21P-534EZ | Low-income wartime veterans’ survivors | Income-based needs |
REPS is a special allowance that can complement or apply in specific historical situations. Many survivors may qualify for DIC instead of or in addition to REPS. VA will determine the correct benefit(s) based on your circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions About VA Form 21P-8924 and REPS
Q: Can I apply for REPS if the veteran died after August 13, 1981?
A: No. REPS is limited to deaths meeting the pre-August 13, 1981 criteria.
Q: Does REPS affect my DIC or other VA benefits?
A: VA coordinates benefits to prevent duplication. Your award letter will explain any offsets or interactions.
Q: How long do REPS benefits last for a surviving spouse?
A: Generally until the youngest child in care turns 18.
Q: Is there an age limit for children?
A: Children must be 18–21 and enrolled full-time in postsecondary education.
Q: Can I get help filling out the form?
A: Yes. Contact a VA-accredited claims agent, attorney, or Veterans Service Organization (VSO). Many offer free assistance.
Additional Resources and Support for Survivors
Here are trusted, current sources for more information and assistance:
- Official VA Form 21P-8924 page and download —
- VA Survivors Benefits Overview —
- Upload your completed form online —
- 38 CFR § 3.812 – Special allowance payable under REPS (legal authority) —
- VA National Call Center: 1-800-827-1000 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. ET)
- Find a local Veterans Service Officer or accredited representative through VA.gov or your state veterans department.
Final Thoughts
VA Form 21P-8924 exists to help a specific group of surviving spouses and children receive the restored benefits they are entitled to. Because eligibility is limited to pre-1981 cases, it is important to review the criteria carefully or speak with a VA representative or accredited advocate before applying.
If you believe you or a family member may qualify, download the form today, gather your information, and submit it promptly. VA is here to support survivors of those who served.
For the most accurate and personalized guidance, always refer directly to VA.gov or contact the VA directly. This article is for informational purposes and is based on official VA sources as of 2026.