Claiming the Accrued Benefits You Deserve: A Guide for Veterans and Their Families

For veterans and their families, accrued benefits can provide crucial financial support when it’s needed most. These benefits are often overlooked or misunderstood, leaving many eligible individuals without the compensation they rightfully deserve. At Veterans Affairs Law, P.A., we specialize in ensuring that veterans and their loved ones receive every dollar owed to them.

What Are Accrued Benefits?

Accrued benefits refer to the unpaid benefits that a veteran was entitled to receive before their passing but were not yet distributed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). These benefits can include:

• Disability compensation
• Pension payments
• Special monthly compensation (SMC)
• Unpaid claims pending at the time of death

These benefits do not vanish after a veteran passes away. Instead, eligible family members—including a surviving spouse, dependent children, or dependent parents—may have the right to claim them.

Who Can Claim Accrued Benefits?

To be eligible for accrued benefits, you must meet specific requirements set by the VA. Generally, the following individuals may qualify:

• The surviving spouse of the deceased veteran
• Dependent children, including those under 18, those still in school up to age 23, or those who became permanently disabled before turning 18
• Dependent parents, if they relied financially on the deceased veteran

Importantly, accrued benefits claims must be filed within one year of the veteran’s passing, making it critical to act quickly.

The Difference Between Accrued Benefits and Substitution

Suppose a veteran had a pending claim at the time of their death. In that case, eligible survivors can either file for accrued benefits or substitute as the claimant to continue the veteran’s case. Substitution allows the surviving family member to step into the veteran’s shoes and continue the claims process. This can be particularly important for complex cases involving disability ratings, total disability individual unemployability (TDIU), or appeals.

Don’t Leave Money on the Table

Accrued benefits can make a significant financial difference for surviving spouses and dependents. Yet, many eligible individuals don’t realize they can claim these benefits or assume that they’ve missed their opportunity. The truth is that the VA claims process can be complex, but with the right legal guidance, you can ensure that no benefit is left unclaimed.

At Veterans Affairs Law, P.A., we help veterans and their families navigate the VA benefits system, ensuring they receive every dollar they are entitled to. If you believe you may be eligible for accrued benefits, don’t wait. Contact us today — we’re here to help you secure the benefits you and your loved ones deserve.