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Apply for VA survivors benefits

Need to know

The Marin County Veterans Service Office (VSO) helps surviving spouses and other eligible dependents apply for federal survivor benefits administered by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

  • The Marin County VSO does not set eligibility or make decisions. All decisions are made by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Survivor benefits may provide:

  • financial support
  • health coverage options
  • educational assistance
  • access to other VA programs (depending on individual circumstances)

Eligibility varies based on:

  • The veteran’s discharge status
  • Service history
  • Cause of death
  • Relationship of the survivor to the veteran
  • Program-specific requirements set by the VA

Before you start

To prepare for a survivor benefits appointment, gather documents listed below (as applicable):

  • Veteran’s DD-214 / Discharge Papers
  • Veteran’s death certificate
  • Marriage certificate, and if applicable, divorce decrees for either party
  • Birth certificates for dependent children (if applicable)
  • Current financial documents for the claimant, such as income information, bank/retirement account statements, asset information, or relevant legal arrangements (trusts, POA, guardianship, etc.)

If you are unsure which documents apply to your situation, the VSO will help identify what is needed during your appointment.

What to do

  1. Gather your available documents
    • Additional items may be requested depending on the type of claim.
  2. Complete VA Form 21-22 (required for representation)
    • This form authorizes the VSO to assist with preparing and submitting your claim.
    • Survivors sign as “A Claimant.”
    • If unable to navigate the link, another format can be provided upon request.
  3. Schedule an appointment
    • Email: Veterans Services
    • Phone: 415-473-6193
    • Online Booking
      • A VSO representative will help review your situation and explain which VA programs may apply. Benefit options vary case by case. The VSO will help:
        • Review eligibility criteria
        • Prepare the necessary VA forms to apply
  4. Meet with an accredited Veterans Service Representative/Officer
    • Appointments are available by phone or in person.
    • Accredited staff will review your situation, help prepare the necessary VA forms, and assemble your application(s) for submission to the VA.
  5. VSO will submit benefit applications
  6. VSO accredited staff prepare the necessary VA forms and files on the claimant's behalf (if applicable)

What's next

What's next content

After your claim is submitted

  • The VA will review your application and may request additional documentation
  • You will receive a written decision (approval or denial) directly from the VA
  • Processing times vary by claim type and completeness of documentation
  • Timelines vary widely based on complexity. While many claims are finalized in a few months, others can take six months to over a year.

If approved

You will receive instructions from the VA explaining:

  • Any awarded benefits
  • Required next steps

Update direct deposit information:

If denied

  • If denied, the VA decision letter will explain the reason and outline your options.
  • The VSO can help you understand the decision and discuss next steps.

Checking claim status

You may check status:

Get help

Marin County Veterans Service Office

Related

Page last updated on Mayo 7, 2026.

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