VA Form 21-526 Veteran's Application for Compensation and/or Pension

INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING THE
VETERAN'S APPLICATION FOR
COMPENSATION AND/OR PENSION
IMPORTANT- Please read the information below carefully to help you complete this form more quickly and
accurately. Some parts of the form also contain notes or specific instructions for completing that part.
Frequently Asked Questions
For what do I use VA Form 21-526?
Use VA Form 21-526 to apply for compensation and/or pension benefits.
Should I apply for compensation or pension benefits?
You should apply for compensation benefits if:
You currently have a disability that is the result of an injury, disease,
or an event in military service.
You should apply for pension benefits if all of the following are true:
You are age 65 or older or are permanently and totally disabled.
You served on active duty with at least one day during a period of war.
Your income and net worth does not exceed certain limits. Visit our website,
http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/21/rates for the maximum yearly income we allow.
Note: Attach current medical evidence showing that you are permanently and totally disabled.
IMPORTANT: If you are a veteran who is age 65 or older, or determined to be disabled by the Social Security
Administration, you DO NOT have to submit medical evidence with your application unless you are filing for special
monthly pension. Special monthly pension is an allowance that may be paid to individuals who, due to mental or physical
disability, require the assistance of another person to perform the basic activities of daily living, or their ability to leave
home is very limited.
May I apply electronically?
To file a claim for VA compensation or pension electronically, please complete and submit VA Form 21-526, Veteran's
Application for Compensation and/or Pension, using VONAPP. The VONAPP (Veterans On Line Application) website is
an official U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) website that enables service members, veterans and their
beneficiaries, and other designated individuals to apply for benefits using the Internet. You can apply online at our website,
http://vabenefits.vba.va.gov/vonapp/main.asp.
What parts of the form should I complete?
You should complete only the parts related to the benefit for which you are applying:
If you are applying for compensation ONLY, skip parts VII, VIII, IX, X.
If you are applying for pension, complete the ENTIRE form.
If you need more space to answer a question or have a comment about a specific item on this
form, please place it in Part XIII, Item 46, "Remarks." Please identify your answer or
comment by the part and item number.
VA FORM
FEB 2012

21-526

SUPERSEDES VA FORM 21-526, SEP 2009, WHICH
WILL NOT BE USED.

PAGE 1

Where can I get help?
You can ask VA to help you fill out the form by contacting a regional office or call center. Before you contact us, make
sure you gather the necessary materials and complete as much of the form as you can. You can contact VA in the
following ways:
By internet: https://iris.va.gov
In person: You can locate the address of the closest regional office on the
website http://www.va.gov/directory or in your telephone book blue pages under
"United States Government, Veterans"
By telephone: Please call one of the following telephone numbers:
1-800-827-1000
1-800-829-4833 (Hearing Impaired TDD line)
1-412-395-6272 (If living outside the U.S.)
You can also contact a county or national veterans' service organization (VSO) representative to help you with your claim.
If you want to use a representative to help you, consult your local telephone book to contact a particular VSO or
contact the closest VA office. Depending on the type of representative you want to designate, we will send you one of the
following forms:
VA Form 21-22, Appointment of Veterans Service Organization as Claimant's Representative
VA Form 21-22A, Appointment of Individual as Claimant's Representative
What should I do when I have finished my application?
You should provide your signature in Part XIII, Item 43A. Be sure to sign every form you fill out
before you send it to us. If you don't sign the form, VA will return it for you to sign, and it will
take longer for us to process.
Attach any materials that support and explain your claim.
Mail or take your application to the closest VA regional office. VA regional office addresses are
available on the internet at http://www.va.gov/directory
Do I need to keep a copy of my application?
It is important that you keep a copy of all completed forms and materials you give to VA.
Social Security and Supplemental Security Income Benefits
Social Security and Supplemental Security Income are two Federal programs that help people with disabilities. While
these programs are different in many ways, the Social Security Administration (SSA) administers both programs. If you
think you have a disabling condition, you may qualify for benefits under one or both of these programs and should contact
Social Security.
How can I contact SSA if I have questions?
You can find answers to most questions and file a claim online at www.socialsecurity.gov. Specific information is
available for active duty military, veterans, and their families at www.socialsecurity.gov/woundedwarriors.
You can also contact SSA in the following ways:
By phone: (Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. EST) at one of the following toll-free numbers:
1-800-772-1213
1-800-325-0778 (TTY if you are deaf or hard of hearing)
By mail or in person: You can locate the address of the Social Security office nearest to you in your
telephone book blue pages under "United States Government, Social Security Administration".

PAGE 2

SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS FOR VA FORM 21-526
Part II - Nature and History of Service-Related Disability(ies)
What disabilities should I list?
List the disease(s) or medical condition(s) that form the basis of your claim for service connected compensation. Be as
specific as you can. Indicate the approximate date the disability began and the place of treatment.
Do I have to include any records with this claim form?
If you have records that support your claim, you should attach them to this form. VA will help you obtain records by
requesting them from the person, company, or agency that has them. On this form you must tell us the name and address
of the person, company or agency that has these records, the approximate time frame covered by them, and the condition
for which you were treated. If you received treatment from a non-VA health care provider complete the
attached VA Form 21-4142, Authorization and Consent to Release Information to the Department of Veterans Affairs
(VA). We will use this form to request these records. Due to Privacy Act regulations, please use only one source of
information (Item 7) on each form, as some medical offices will not accept the forms otherwise, which may cause a delay
in processing your claim. Additional 21-4142 forms can be obtained from the VA forms website at
www.va.gov/vaforms.
Part III - Active Duty Service Information
Do I need to include my active duty service information?
Please provide the information for each period of active duty (provide a copy of your DD214 or other separation
papers for all periods of active duty service).
Part IV - Reserve and National Guard Service Information
What If I have Reserve or National Guard Service?
This section tells us if you were a member of the Reserve or National Guard. Complete information for each period of
Reserve and National Guard service. Provide a copy of your DD214 or other separation papers for all periods of active
service.
Part V - Military Retired/Severance Pay
What If I have received or will receive military pay?
This section asks about your military severance or separation pay, the type, and the amount. If you currently receive
military retired pay, we may reduce your retired pay by the amount of any compensation that we award. It is to your
advantage because VA compensation is not taxable while retired pay is taxable. However, if you wish to receive military
retired pay rather than VA compensation, you must check the box in Item 25. Some veterans receive various
readjustment, separation, or severance pay from service departments which may be recouped in full or in part from VA
benefit payments.
Part VI - Marital and Dependency Information
Who can I count as a dependent spouse?
A spouse is a person of the opposite sex who is married to the veteran (authority: 38 U.S.C. subsection 101(31)). The
marriage must be valid under the law of the place where the parties resided at the time of marriage, or the law of the place
where the parties resided when the right to benefits occurred.
Note: It is important that you provide your marital history and that of your spouse.
Who can be recognized as a dependent child?
VA recognizes the veteran's biological child, adopted child, and stepchild. However, the child must be unmarried and:
under the age of 18, or
at least 18 but under 23 and pursuing an approved course of education, or
permanently incapable of self support before reaching the age of 18.
PAGE 3

SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS FOR VA FORM 21-526 (Continued)
Part VII - Non Service-Connected Pension
This section asks you to provide the disabilities that prevent you from working. We also ask you to tell us if you require
the regular assistance of another person, if you are housebound, if you are in a nursing home, if you are in
receipt of Social Security, or if you have applied for Medicaid.
Part VIII - Income Information
This section asks you to provide specific information about the monthly income you and your dependents receive from all
sources. Report the gross amount you receive monthly before deductions are taken out for taxes, health care, insurance,
etc. Do not leave any blank boxes in this section! Complete each box with either a dollar figure, "0", or "none." VA will
interpret a blank space as "0" or "None." If you expect to receive payment, but you don't know how much it will be, write
"Unknown" in the space. If you are not sure about a particular type of income, report it and provide a full explanation of
its source. If you are receiving monthly benefits from any source and have a copy of your most recent award letter, please
include a copy of the letter with your application.
Part IX - Net Worth
This section asks you to provide specific information about your net worth and that of your dependents. Do not leave any
blank boxes in this section! Complete each box with either a dollar figure, "0", or "None". VA will interpret a
blank space as "0" or "None".
Net worth is the market value of all interest and rights in any kind of property, after subtracting any mortgages and other
claims against the property. List all assets except the house in which you live, any reasonable area of land on which it sits,
and those items you use everyday, such as your vehicle, clothing and furniture.
Clearly indicate if you and your spouse jointly share assets (such as money in a joint checking account). Report the value
of farms or buildings that you or a dependent owns as "real property."
Part X - Information About Transferred Assets
VA considers all of your (and your spouse's) assets (net worth) in determining your eligibility for non service-connected
pension. Transferring your cash or property to another person, trust, organization, corporation or any other entity does not
reduce your net worth in order to qualify for pension unless it is clear that you have permanently given up all rights of
ownership, including the right to control the cash or property. In completing this form, you must tell us about all assets
you have transferred in the last two (2) years, along with any assets you transferred previously for any period of time if the
value of the asset(s) exceeded a total of $20,000. In Part X, Items 38A and 38B, report all transferred assets. Note the
conditions of transfer in Item 46, "Remarks," including any remaining right, privilege of ownership, benefit, or
control you have over the asset.
Part XI - Medical, Legal or Other Expenses
When determining your eligibility for pension, we may be able to deduct unreimbursed medical expenses from your
income for the year in which the expenses are paid. Report the amount of unreimbursed medical expenses, including the
Medicare deductions you paid (out-of-pocket) for yourself or relatives you are under an obligation to support. Also, show
medical, legal, or other expenses you paid because of a disability for which civilian disability benefits have been awarded.
Do not report any expenses you did not pay or expenses for which you were or will be reimbursed.
PRIVACY ACT INFORMATION: The VA will not disclose information collected on this form to any source other than what has been authorized under the Privacy Act of 1974 or Title 38, Code of Federal Regulations
1.576 for routine uses (i.e., civil or criminal law enforcement, congressional communications, epidemiological or research studies, the collection of money owed to the United States, litigation in which the United States is
a party or has an interest, the administration of VA programs and delivery of VA benefits, verification of identity and status, and personnel administration) as identified in the VA system of records, 58VA21/22/28,
Compensation, Pension, Education, and Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Records - VA, published in the Federal Register. Your obligation to respond is voluntary; however, no allowance of compensation or pension
may be granted unless this form is completed fully as required by law. Giving us you and your dependents' Social Security numbers is mandatory. Applicants are required to provide their SSN and the SSN of any dependents for
whom benefits are claimed under Title 38 USC 5101 (c)(1). The VA will not deny an individual benefits for refusing to provide his or her SSN unless the disclosure of the SSN is required by a Federal Statute of law in effect prior to
January 1, 1975, and still in effect. The requested information is considered relevant and necessary to determine maximum benefits under the law. Information submitted is subject to verification through computer matching
programs with other Federal or state agencies. Income and employment information furnished by you will be compared with information obtained by VA from the Secretary of Health and Human Services or the Secretary of
the Treasury under clause (viii) of section 6103(1)(7)(D) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
RESPONDENT BURDEN: We need this information to determine your eligibility for compensation and/or pension (38 U.S.C. 5101). Title 38, United States Code, allows us to ask for this information. We estimate that you
will need an average of 1 hour to review the instructions, find the information, and complete this form. VA cannot conduct or sponsor a collection of information unless a valid OMB control number is displayed. You are
not required to respond to a collection of information if this number is not displayed. Valid OMB control numbers can be located on the OMB Internet Page at http://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/PRAMain . If
desired, you can call 1-800-827-1000 to get information on where to send comments or suggestions about this form.

PAGE 4

OMB Control No. 2900-0001
Respondent Burden: 1 hour

VETERAN'S APPLICATION FOR COMPENSATION AND/OR PENSION
IMPORTANT - Read information and instructions carefully before completing the form. Type, print,
or write plainly.
PART I - VETERAN'S INFORMATION

(DO NOT WRITE IN THIS SPACE)
(VA DATE STAMP)

1. FOR WHAT BENEFIT ARE YOU APPLYING?
COMPENSATION

PENSION

BOTH COMPENSATION AND PENSION

2. HAVE YOU PREVIOUSLY APPLIED FOR ANY VA BENEFIT(S)? (Check applicable box)
PENSION

COMPENSATION

OTHER (Specify)

3. FIRST, MIDDLE, LAST NAME OF VETERAN
4A. VETERAN'S SOCIAL SECURITY NO. 4B. VA FILE NUMBER (If applicable)

4C. SPOUSE'S SOCIAL SECURITY NO.

4D. IF YOU SERVED UNDER ANOTHER NAME, GIVE NAME AND PERIOD DURING WHICH YOU SERVED AND SERVICE NO.
5. MAILING ADDRESS (Number and street or rural route, city or P.O., State and ZIP Code)
7. E - MAIL ADDRESS (If applicable)

6. TELEPHONE NUMBER(S) (Include Area Code)
B. EVENING

A. DAYTIME

C. CELL
9. SEX

8B. PLACE OF BIRTH

8A. DATE OF BIRTH (Month, day, year)

MALE
10A. HAVE YOU EVER FILED A CLAIM FOR COMPENSATION FROM
THE OFFICE OF WORKERS' COMPENSATION PROGRAMS?
(Formerly the U.S. Bureau of Employees Compensation)
YES

10B. WHEN WAS THE CLAIM FILED?
(Mo., day, yr.)

FEMALE

10C. FOR WHAT DISABILITY ARE YOU RECEIVING
BENEFITS?

(If "Yes," complete Items 10B & 10C)

NO

PART II - NATURE AND HISTORY OF SERVICE-RELATED DISABILITY(IES) - If you need more space please use Item 46, "Remarks"
11. Please provide nature of sickness, disease, or injuries for which this claim is made; date each began and place of treatment.
If you need more space to list disabilities, please list them in Item 46 "Remarks" or on a separate sheet of paper and attach it to this form.
A. LIST DISABILITY(IES)

12A. ARE YOU NOW OR HAVE YOU EVER RECEIVED
TREATMENT OR DOMICILIARY CARE AT A
VA MEDICAL FACILITY?
YES

NO

C. PLACE OF TREATMENT

B. DATE BEGAN

12B. DATES OF TREATMENT/CARE
Day
Month
Year

12C. NAME AND ADDRESS OF VA MEDICAL FACILITY
(If you need more space use Item 46, "Remarks")

(If "Yes,"complete Items 12B &12C)

13A. HAVE YOU EVER BEEN A PRISONER OF WAR?

13B. NAME OF COUNTRY
FROM

YES

NO

(If "Yes," complete Items 13B and 13C)

14. ARE YOU CLAIMING A DISABILITY RELATED TO AGENT ORANGE OR
OTHER HERBICIDE EXPOSURE? (If "Yes," list disability(ies) below)
YES

NO

15. ARE YOU CLAIMING A DISABILITY RELATED TO ASBESTOS
EXPOSURE? (If "Yes," list disability(ies) below)
YES

NO

16. ARE YOU CLAIMING A DISABILITY RELATED TO MUSTARD GAS
EXPOSURE? (If "Yes," list disability(ies) below)
YES

13C. DATES OF CONFINEMENT
TO

NO

17. ARE YOU CLAIMING A DISABILITY RELATED TO IONIZING RADIATION
EXPOSURE? (If 'Yes," list disability(ies) below)
YES

NO

18. ARE YOU CLAIMING A DISABILITY RELATED TO AN ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARD EXPOSURE DURING THE GULF WAR? (If "Yes," list disability(ies) below)

YES

NO

YOU MUST SIGN AND PRINT YOUR NAME AND DATE THIS FORM IN ITEMS 43A THRU 43C ON PAGE 10.
VA FORM
FEB 2012

21-526

SUPERSEDES VA FORM 21-526, SEP 2009, WHICH
WILL NOT BE USED.

PAGE 5

PART III - ACTIVE DUTY SERVICE INFORMATION
NOTE: Please complete the information for each period of active duty. Attach DD214 or other separation papers for all periods of
active duty. If you do not have your DD214 form or other separation papers, check the box.
19A. ENTERED INTO SERVICE
DATE

19B. SERVICE NUMBER

19C. SEPARATED FROM SERVICE
PLACE

DATE

PLACE

19D. BRANCH OF
SERVICE

19E. GRADE, RANK OR
RATING, ORGANIZATION

PART IV - RESERVE AND NATIONAL GUARD SERVICE INFORMATION
NOTE: Enter complete information for each period of Reserves and National Guard service. Attach any separation papers you have.
20A. ENTERED INTO SERVICE
DATE

20B. SERVICE NUMBER

PLACE

20C. SEPARATED FROM SERVICE
DATE

PLACE

20D. SERVICE STATUS
(Reserve, National Guard)

20E. GRADE, RANK OR
RATING, ORGANIZATION

21. IF DISABILITY OCCURRED DURING ACTIVE OR INACTIVE DUTY 22A. ARE YOU NOW A MEMBER OF THE RESERVES OR 22B. RESERVE STATUS
FOR TRAINING, GIVE BRANCH OF SERVICE AND DATE OF
NATIONAL GUARD? IF SO, GIVE THE BRANCH
ACTIVE
RESERVE
OCCURRENCE
OF SERVICE

OBLIGATION

INACTIVE

NO BRANCH

YES

22C. NAME, ADDRESS AND PHONE NO. OF RESERVE OR NATIONAL GUARD UNIT (If additional space is needed, use Item 46 "Remarks")

PART V - MILITARY RETIRED/SEVERANCE PAY
IMPORTANT - Unless you check the box in Item 25 below, you are telling us that you are choosing to receive VA compensation instead of military retired pay, if it is
determined you are entitled to both benefits. If you are awarded military retired pay prior to compensation, we will reduce your retired pay by the amount of any
compensation that you are awarded. VA will notify the Military Retired Pay Center of all benefit changes. If you receive both military retired pay and VA
compensation, some of the amount you receive may be recouped by VA, or, in the case of Voluntary Separation Incentive (VSI), by the Department of Defense.
23A. ARE YOU RECEIVING MILITARY
RETIRED PAY? (If "Yes," complete

Items 23C & 23D)

YES

23B. WILL YOU RECEIVE MILITARY RETIRED PAY IN THE
FUTURE? (If "Yes," explain, i.e. Future Reserve/National Guard

Retirement, Pending MEB/PEB)

YES

NO

23C. BRANCH OF
SERVICE

23D. MONTHLY
AMOUNT

$

NO

24. RETIRED STATUS

25. NO, I DO NOT WANT VA COMPENSATION IN LIEU OF MILITARY RETIRED PAY

(Check box, if applicable)
TEMPORARY DISABILITY
DISABLED
RETIRED LIST
RETIRED LIST
26. HAVE YOU EVER APPLIED FOR OR RECEIVED DISABILITY SEVERANCE/SEPARATION PAY, OR ANY OTHER LUMP SUM PAYMENT FROM THE ARMED FORCES?
(If "Yes," list type, amount, date it was received, and the branch of service below)
RETIRED

YES

NO

PART VI - MARITAL AND DEPENDENCY INFORMATION
27A. MARITAL STATUS (If married, complete Items 27B thru 29D)
MARRIED

WIDOWED

27B. SPOUSES'S BIRTHDATE (Mo., day, yr.)
NEVER MARRIED (If never married, skip to Item 30)

DIVORCED

27C. NUMBER OF TIMES YOU 27D. NUMBER OF TIMES YOUR 27E. IS YOUR SPOUSE ALSO A VETERAN?
HAVE BEEN MARRIED
PRESENT SPOUSE HAS
(To include current marriage)
BEEN MARRIED (To include

27F. SPOUSE'S VA FILE NUMBER (If any)

current marriage)

YES
27G. DO YOU LIVE TOGETHER?
YES

NO

NO (If "Yes,"complete Item 27F)

27H. REASON FOR SEPARATION (For example,
marital problems, job requirements, health, etc.)

C27I. PRESENT ADDRESS OF SPOUSE

(If "No,"complete Items 27H thru 27J)

27J. AMOUNT YOU CONTRIBUTE TO YOUR
SPOUSE'S MONTHLY SUPPORT

$

27K. HOW WERE YOU MARRIED?
CLERGYMAN OR AUTHORIZED
PUBLIC OFFICIAL

TRIBAL

COMMON-LAW

PROXY

OTHER (Explain)

YOU MUST SIGN AND PRINT YOUR NAME AND DATE THIS FORM IN ITEMS 43A THRU 43C ON PAGE 10.
VA Form 21-526, FEB 2012

PAGE 6

PART VI - MARITAL AND DEPENDENCY INFORMATION - CONTINUED (If you need additional space, use Item 46 "Remarks")
FURNISH THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION ABOUT EACH OF YOUR MARRIAGES (IF NOT APPLICABLE, WRITE "N/A")
28A. DATE AND PLACE OF MARRIAGE
MONTH, YEAR

28C. TERMINATED

28B. TO WHOM MARRIED

(Death, Divorce)

CITY, STATE

28D. DATE AND PLACE TERMINATED
MONTH, YEAR

CITY, STATE

FURNISH THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION ABOUT EACH PREVIOUS MARRIAGE OF YOUR PRESENT SPOUSE (IF NOT APPLICABLE, WRITE "N/A")
29A. DATE AND PLACE OF MARRIAGE

29C. TERMINATED

29B. TO WHOM MARRIED

(Death, Divorce)

CITY, STATE

MONTH, YEAR

29D. DATE AND PLACE TERMINATED
MONTH, YEAR

CITY, STATE

DEPENDENCY - Dependent Children Information (If you need additional space, use Item 46 "Remarks")
FURNISH THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION FOR EACH OF YOUR DEPENDENT CHILDREN
30A. NAME OF CHILD

(First, middle initial, last)

30D. CHECK EACH APPLICABLE CATEGORY
30B. DATE & PLACE OF
30C. SOCIAL SECURITY
18-23 YRS.
SERIOUSLY
CHILD
BIRTH
NUMBER
BIOLOGICAL ADOPTED STEPCHILD OLD AND IN
DISABLED
PREVIOUSLY
(City, state or country)
SCHOOL BEFORE AGE 18
MARRIED

(Month, day, year)
Place:

(Month, day, year)
Place:

(Month, day, year)
Place:

FURNISH THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION FOR EACH OF YOUR DEPENDENT CHILDREN WHO DO NOT LIVE WITH YOU
31A. NAME(S) OF ANY CHILD(REN) NOT
IN YOUR CUSTODY

31B. NAME AND ADDRESS OF
PERSON HAVING CUSTODY

31C. MONTHLY AMOUNT YOU
CONTRIBUTE TO
CHILD'S SUPPORT

$
$
PART VII - NON SERVICE-CONNECTED PENSION (If you need additional space use Item 46 "Remarks")
IMPORTANT: You do not have to submit medical evidence or list disabilities if you are age 65 or older, unless you are housebound,
or require the regular assistance of another person.
32. WHAT DISABILITIES PREVENT YOU FROM WORKING? (List below)
33. DO YOU NEED THE REGULAR ASSISTANCE OF ANOTHER PERSON OR ARE YOU GENERALLY CONFINED TO YOUR IMMEDIATE PREMISES?
YES

NO

NURSING HOME INFORMATION
NOTE: You may submit a statement by an official of the nursing home that tells us that you are a patient in the nursing home because of a physical or
mental disability. The statement should include the monthly charge you are paying out-of-pocket for your care.
34A. ARE YOU NOW IN A NURSING HOME?
YES

NO

34B. NAME AND COMPLETE MAILING ADDRESS OF THE FACILITY

(If "YES," complete
Items 34B thru 34D)

34D. DOES MEDICAID COVER ALL OR PART OF YOUR NURSING
HOME COSTS OR HAVE YOU APPLIED AND NOT
RECEIVED A DECISION?
YES

NO

APPLIED - NOT RECEIVED DECISION

34C. HAVE YOU APPLIED FOR
MEDICAID?
YES

NO

34E. ARE YOU RECEIVING SUPPLEMENTAL SOCIAL SECURITY INCOME (SSI)
OR HAVE YOU APPLIED FOR SSI BUT NO DECISION HAS BEEN MADE?
YES

NO

APPLIED - NOT RECEIVED DECISION

YOU MUST SIGN AND PRINT YOUR NAME AND DATE THIS FORM IN ITEMS 43A THRU 43C ON PAGE 10.
VA Form 21-526, FEB 2012

PAGE 7

PART VIII - INCOME INFORMATION (Provide the income you received from all sources)
NOTE: Report the total income before deductions for taxes, insurance, etc. If you do not receive any payments from one of the
sources that we list, write "0" or "None" in the space. If you are receiving monthly benefits, give us a copy of your most recent award
letter. This will help us determine the amount of benefits you should be paid. Payments from any source will be counted, unless the
law says that they don't need to be counted.
MONTHLY INCOME - Provide the income that you and your dependents receive every month. For Items 35A-35F, if none,
write "0" or "NONE." Do not leave blank spaces.
SOURCES OF

ITEM RECURRING MONTHLY
NO.
INCOME

35A.

Salary and Wages

35B.

Social Security

35C.

U.S. Civil Service

35D.

U.S. Railroad Retirement

35E.

Military Retired Pay

35F.

Black Lung Benefits

35G.

CHILD(REN) (Provide the first, middle initial, and last name)
VETERAN

SPOUSE

NAME

NAME

NAME

Other (Interest, dividends,

or one-time payments)

36B. WILL YOU RECEIVE ANY INCOME FROM
36A. WILL YOU RECEIVE ANY INCOME FROM
THE OPERATION OF A FARM WITHIN 12
RENTAL PROPERTY OR FROM THE
MONTHS OF THE DAY YOU SIGN THIS
OPERATION OF A BUSINESS WITHIN 12
FORM?
MONTHS OF THE DAY YOU SIGN THIS FORM?
YES

NO

YES

36C. DO YOU THINK YOUR INCOME WILL CHANGE
IN THE NEXT 12 MONTHS? (If "Yes," explain below)
YES

NO

NO

PART IX - INFORMATION ABOUT THE NET WORTH OF YOU AND YOUR DEPENDENTS
NET WORTH - is the market value of all interest and rights in any kind of property after subtracting any mortgages or other claims
against the property. However, net worth does not include the house you live in or a reasonable area of land it sits on. Net worth also
does not include the value of personal items such as your vehicle, clothing, and furniture.
NOTE: For Items 37A-37F provide amounts. If none, write "0" OR "NONE." Do not leave blank spaces.
CHILD(REN) (Provide the first, middle initial, and last name)
ITEM
NO.

SOURCE

37A.

Cash, non-interest
bearing bank accounts

37B.

Interest bearing bank
accounts, certificates of
deposit (CDs)

37C.

SPOUSE

NAME

NAME

NAME

Retirement accounts

(IRAs, Keogh Plans, etc.)

37D.

Stocks, bonds, and
mutual funds

37E.

Value of business assets

37F.

VETERAN

Real property

(not your home)

YOU MUST SIGN AND PRINT YOUR NAME AND DATE THIS FORM IN ITEMS 43A THRU 43C ON PAGE 10.
VA Form 21-526, FEB 2012

PAGE 8

PART X - INFORMATION ABOUT TRANSFERRED ASSETS
NOTE - Provide the conditions of the transfer in Item 46, "Remarks" including any remaining right, privilege of ownership, benefit, or control you have over the asset.
38A. HAVE YOU TRANSFERRED ANY ASSETS IN THE LAST TWO (2) YEARS?

YES

NO (If "Yes," provide the date of transfer_______________

38B. HAVE YOU TRANSFERRED ASSETS AT ANY TIME IN EXCESS OF $20,000?

YES

NO (If "Yes," provide the date of transfer_______________

and the value $_____________________

and the value $_____________________

PART XI - MEDICAL, LEGAL, OR OTHER EXPENSES
IMPORTANT - Complete Items 39A through 39E only if you are applying for non service-connected pension.
MEDICAL, LEGAL OR OTHER EXPENSES - Family medical expenses you actually paid (out-of-pocket) may be deducted from your income. Show
the amount of unreimbursed medical expenses you paid for dependents you are under an obligation to support. Also, show medical, legal, or other
expenses you paid because of a disability for which civilian disability benefits have been awarded. When determining your income, we may be able to
increase benefits for the year in which the expenses are paid. Do not include any expenses for which you were reimbursed. Be sure to include the
Medicare deduction. If more space is needed, you may use Item 46, "Remarks" or attach a separate sheet.
39A. AMOUNT YOU PAID

39B. DATE
PAID
(Month, year)

39C. PURPOSE
(Doctor's fees, hospital charges,
attorney fees, etc.)

39D. PAID TO

39E. PERSON FOR WHOM

(Name of doctor, hospital, pharmacy, attorney, etc.) EXPENSE PAID (Self, spouse, child)

PART XII - DIRECT DEPOSIT
The Department of Treasury requires all Federal benefit payments be made by electronic funds transfer (EFT), also called direct
deposit. Please attach a voided personal check or deposit slip or provide the information requested below in Items 40, 41 and 42 to
enroll in direct deposit. If you do not have a bank account, you must receive your payment through Direct Express Debit MasterCard.
To request a Direct Express Debit MasterCard you must apply at www.usdirectexpress.com or by telephone at 1-800-333-1795.
If you elect not to enroll, you must contact representatives handling waiver requests for the Department of Treasury at
1-888-224-2950. They will encourage your participation in EFT and address any questions or concerns you may have.
40. ACCOUNT NUMBER (Please check the appropriate box and provide the account number, if applicable)

CHECKING
(Account Number)
SAVINGS

I certify that I do not have an account
with a financial institution or certified
payment agent

(Account Number)
41. NAME OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTION (Please provide the name of the bank

where you want your direct deposit to go)

42. ROUTING OR TRANSIT NUMBER (The first nine numbers located at the bottom

left of your check or savings deposit slip)

YOU MUST SIGN AND PRINT YOUR NAME AND DATE THIS FORM IN ITEMS 43A THRU 43C ON PAGE 10.
VA Form 21-526, FEB 2012

PAGE 9

PART XIII - CERTIFICATION, AUTHORIZATION, AND SIGNATURE(S)

I certify that the statements in this document are true and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief. I authorize any person or entity, including but
not limited to any organization, service provider, employer or government agency, to give the Department of Veterans Affairs any information about me
except protected health information, and I waive any privilege which makes the information confidential.
IMPORTANT - If you sign with an "X", then you must have 2 people witness your signature. They must then print their names and addresses and
sign the form.
43A. VETERAN'S SIGNATURE (Do not print) (Please sign in ink)

43B. VETERAN'S PRINTED NAME

43C. DATE SIGNED

44A. SIGNATURE OF WITNESS (Do not print)

44B. PRINTED NAME AND ADDRESS OF WITNESS

45A. SIGNATURE OF WITNESS (Do not print)

45B. PRINTED NAME AND ADDRESS OF WITNESS

PART XIV - REMARKS (Use this space for any additional statements that you would like to make
concerning your application for Compensation and/or Pension)
46. REMARKS (If you need more space you may attach a separate sheet of paper)

VA Form 21-526, FEB 2012

PAGE 10

OMB Control No. 2900-0001
Respondent Burden: 5 minutes

AUTHORIZATION AND CONSENT TO RELEASE INFORMATION TO THE
DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA)
RESPONDENT BURDEN: We need this information to obtain your treatment records. Title 38, United States Code, allows us to ask for this information. We
estimate that you will need an average of 5 minutes to review the instructions, find the information and complete this form. VA cannot conduct or sponsor a
collection of information unless a valid OMB control number is displayed. You are not required to respond to a collection of information if this number is not
displayed. Valid OMB control numbers can be located on the OMB Internet Page at http://reginfo.gov/public/do/PRAMain. If desired, you can call 1-800-827-1000
to get information on where to send comments or suggestions about this form.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS FORM, CALL VA TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-827-1000
(TDD 1-800-829-4833 FOR HEARING IMPAIRED).
SECTION I - VETERAN/CLAIMANT IDENTIFICATION
1. LAST NAME - FIRST NAME - MIDDLE NAME OF VETERAN (Type or print)

2. DATE OF BIRTH
(MM,DD,YYYY)

3. VETERAN'S VA FILE NUMBER

4. CLAIMANT'S NAME (If other than veteran) LAST NAME, FIRST, MIDDLE

5. VETERAN'S SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

6. RELATIONSHIP OF CLAIMANT TO VETERAN

7. CLAIMANT'S SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

SECTION II - SOURCE OF PERTINENT INFORMATION (Please use a separate form for each source)
8A. LIST THE SOURCE OF INFORMATION OR PROVIDER OF
MEDICAL TREATMENT FOR YOUR CLAIMED CONDITION(S)
(Include the first and last name, complete address, and
telephone number)

8B. DATE(S) OF TREATMENT:

(Include the time period (month and
year) for which the provider in Item 8A
treated you for your currently claimed
condition(s)

8C. LIST THE DISABILITY(IES)
FOR WHICH YOU FILED YOUR
CURRENT CLAIM AND THAT
WERE TREATED BY THE
PROVIDER IN ITEM 8A

NOTE - "Treatment" includes office visits, hospitalizations, telephone consultations, etc.
Source of Information (other than medical treatment provider):

First Name and Last Name of Medical Treatment Provider:

Complete Address and Telephone Number of Source of Information or
Medical Treatment Provider:

9. COMMENTS:

YOU MUST SIGN AND DATE THIS FORM ON PAGE 2 AND CHECK THE APPROPRIATE BLOCK IN ITEM 10C.
VA FORM
FEB 2012

21-4142

PAGE 1

SECTION III - CONSENT TO RELEASE INFORMATION

READ ALL PARAGRAPHS CAREFULLY BEFORE SIGNING. YOU MUST CHECK THE APPROPRIATE STATEMENT
UNDERLINED IN PARENTHESES IN PARAGRAPH 9C.
10A. Privacy Act Notice: The VA will not disclose information collected on this form to any source other than what has been authorized under
the Privacy Act of 1974 or Title 38, Code of Federal Regulations 1.576 for routine uses (i.e., civil or criminal law enforcement, congressional
communications, epidemiological or research studies, the collection of money owed to the United States, litigation in which the United States is a
party or has an interest, the administration of VA programs and delivery of VA benefits, verification of identity and status, and personnel
administration) as identified in the VA system of records, 58VA21/22/28 Compensation, Pension, Education, and Vocational Rehabilitation and
Employment Records - VA, published in the Federal Register. Your obligation to respond is voluntary. However, if the information including your
Social Security Number (SSN) is not furnished completely or accurately, the health care provider to which this authorization is addressed may not
be able to identify and locate your records, and provide a copy to VA. VA uses your SSN to identify your claim file. Providing your SSN will help
ensure that your records are properly associated with your claim file. Giving us your SSN account information is voluntary. Refusal to provide
your SSN by itself will not result in the denial of benefits. The VA will not deny an individual benefits for refusing to provide his or her SSN
unless the disclosure of the SSN is required by Federal Statute of law in effect prior to January 1, 1975, and still in effect.

10B. I, the undersigned, hereby authorize the hospital, physician or other health care provider or health plan shown in Item 8A to release any
information that may have been obtained in connection with a physical, psychological or psychiatric examination or treatment, with the
understanding that VA will use this information in determining my eligibility to veterans benefits I have claimed. I understand that the health care
provider or health plan identified in Item 8A who is being asked to provide the Veterans Benefits Administration with records under this
authorization may not require me to execute this authorization before it will, or will continue to, provide me with treatment, payment for health care,
enrollment in a health plan, or eligibility for benefits provided by it. I understand that once my health care provider sends this information to VA
under this authorization, the information will no longer be protected by the HIPAA Privacy Rule, but will be protected by the Federal Privacy Act, 5
USC 552a, and VA may disclose this information as authorized by law. I also understand that I may revoke this authorization, at anytime (except to
the extent that the health care provider has already released information to VA under this authorization) by notifying the health care provider shown
in Item 8A. Please contact the VA Regional Office handling your claim or the Board of Veterans' Appeals, if an appeal is pending, regarding such
action. If you do not revoke this authorization, it will automatically end 180 days from the date you sign and date the form (Item 10C).

10C. I
(AUTHORIZE)
(DO NOT AUTHORIZE) the source shown in Item 8A to release or disclose any information or
records relating to the diagnosis, treatment or other therapy for the condition(s) of drug abuse, alcoholism or alcohol abuse,
infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), sickle cell anemia or psychotherapy notes. IF MY CONSENT TO THIS
INFORMATION IS LIMITED, THE LIMITATION IS WRITTEN HERE:

11A. SIGNATURE OF VETERAN/CLAIMANT OR LEGAL REPRESENTATIVE 11B. RELATIONSHIP TO VETERAN/CLAIMANT

(If other than self, please provide full name, title,
organization, city, State and ZIP Code. All court
appointments must include docket number, county
and State)

11C. DATE

11D. MAILING ADDRESS (Number and Street or rural route, city, or P.O. State and ZIP Code) 11E. TELEPHONE NUMBER (Include Area Code)

The signature and address of a person who either knows the person signing this form or is satisfied as to that person's identity is
requested below. This is not required by VA but may be required by the source of the information.
12A. SIGNATURE OF WITNESS

12B. DATE

12C. MAILING ADDRESS OF WITNESS

VA FORM 21-4142, FEB 2012

PAGE 2