About this service
The Marin County Veterans Service Office (VSO) helps veterans, survivors, and dependents apply for VBA benefits. These are federal benefits administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) through Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA).
Notes:
- The VSO does not decide claims or manage VA payments
- All eligibility and benefit decisions are determined by the VA.
- For veterans looking to file a disability claim see Veteran pension and compensation page
Survivor benefits may include:
- Financial support
- Health coverage options
- Educational assistance
- Access to other VA programs (depending on individual circumstances)
- Burial
Who this service is for
This service is for surviving spouses and dependents who may be eligible for VA survivor benefits.
Eligibility depends on factors such as:
- Veteran’s discharge status
- Service history
- Cause of death
- Relationship to the veteran
- Program-specific VA requirements
Details
What the Marin County VSO does
Accredited VSO staff:
- Review your situation
- Identify potential VA benefits
- Prepare and submit applications
- Help gather and organize required documents
- Explain VA decisions and next steps
The VSO provides assistance and representation but does not make final decisions.
What to prepare
To prepare for an appointment, gather the following (as applicable):
- Veteran’s DD-214 / discharge papers
Request here: Military Service Records - Veteran’s death certificate
- Marriage certificate and any divorce decrees
- Birth certificates for dependent children (if applicable)
- Financial documents (income, assets, accounts, or legal arrangements such as trusts or POA)
If you are unsure what applies, the VSO will help identify needed documents.
Representation and forms
Claimants may complete VA Form 21-22 to authorize VSO representation.
Online form: VA Form 21-22 (Marin County online form)
- Survivors sign as “A Claimant”
- This allows the VSO to assist with preparing and submitting claims
- A new VA Form 21-22 is required after the veteran’s death, even if the VSO previously assisted the veteran
How claims are handled
- The VSO prepares and submits your application to the VA
- The VA reviews the claim and may request additional documentation
After your claim is submitted
- The VA reviews all submitted information
- Additional documents or clarification may be requested
- You will receive a written decision (approval or denial)
Processing times vary:
- Some claims are completed in a few months
- More complex claims may take 6 months to over a year
If approved
The VA will provide:
- Details of awarded benefits
- Instructions for next steps
To update direct deposit:
- Online: VA.gov
- Phone: 800-827-1000
If denied
- The VA decision letter will explain the reason
- The VSO can help you:
- Understand the decision
- Review options and next steps
How to check claim status
You may check claim status through:
- Login: VA.gov
- Call: 800-827-1000
- Contact the Marin County Veterans Service Office
Marin County Veterans Service Office
- Email: Veterans Service Office
- Phone: 415-473-6193
- Online Booking
- Accessibility Notice: This booking tool may not work with all assistive technology. For assistance scheduling an appointment or to request accommodations, please email Veterans Service Office or call 415-473-6193. To use the California Relay Service, dial 711.