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The VA Form 21-8951 serves a critical function for veterans who wish to manage their benefits in relation to military pay and allowances. This form, officially titled "Notice of Waiver of VA Compensation or Pension to Receive Military Pay and Allowances," is vital for determining whether a veteran chooses to waive their VA compensation or pension in favor of military pay for training days. With an expected completion time of 10 minutes, the form requires specific personal information, including the veteran's name, Social Security number, and service details. It's imperative for users to understand that receiving active or inactive duty training pay disqualifies them from simultaneously receiving VA benefits. The form also outlines the verification of training days and the necessary certifications from both the reservist and their unit commander. To avoid complications, veterans must return the completed form within 60 days of filling it out. The provided addresses direct claims to the appropriate VA intake centers based on the type of claim. Accurate and timely submission of this form can have important financial implications for veterans, emphasizing the need for careful attention to detail during completion.

Va 21 8951 Example

OMB Approved No. 2900-0463

Respondent Burden: 10 minutes

Expiration Date: 01/31/2023

VA DATE STAMP

(DO NOT WRITE IN THIS SPACE)

NOTICE OF WAIVER OF VA COMPENSATION OR PENSION TO RECEIVE

MILITARY PAY AND ALLOWANCES

IMPORTANT: We need this information to determine whether you choose to waive your VA compensation or pension or your military pay and allowances for the days for which you received training pay (10 U.S.C. 12316 and 38 U.S.C.5304(c)). If you have any questions about the information contained on this form or if you need assistance in completing the form, call VA's toll-free number 1-800-827-1000.

TO

NAME AND ADDRESS OF VETERAN

FROM

SECTION I - VETERAN'S IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION

NOTE: You may complete the form online or by hand. If completed by hand, print the information requested in ink, neatly and legibly, insert one letter per box, and completely fill in each applicable circle to help expedite processing of the form.

1. NAME OF VETERAN (First, Middle Initial, Last)

2.SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

5.VETERAN'S SERVICE NUMBER (If applicable)

6.TELEPHONE NUMBER (Include Area Code)

3. VA FILE NUMBER

 

4. DATE OF BIRTH (MM/DD/YYYY)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7. EMAIL ADDRESS (Optional)

I agree to receive electronic correspondence

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

from VA in regards to my claim.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enter International Phone Number (If applicable)

SECTION II - TRAINING PAY INFORMATION

Based on your Social Security Number (SSN), the Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC) has identified you as having been a reservist or guardsman during the fiscal year indicated below. Please verify that the Social Security number shown above is your correct Social Security number. If it is not, please enter the correct number. Also, please enter your telephone number above.

By law, active or inactive duty training pay can't be paid at the same time you're receiving VA disability compensation or pension benefits. You may decide to keep the training pay you received from your military branch. However, to keep your training pay, you must waive your VA benefits for the same number of days as the number of days you received training pay. Usually, it's to your advantage to waive benefits and keep your training pay.

Please enter the number of days for which you received training pay below.

FISCAL YEAR

TRAINING DAYS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NOTE: A fiscal year runs from October 1 through September 30. For example, fiscal year 2017 runs from October 1, 2016 through September 30, 2017.

Please note that the National Guard and Reserves report one full day's duty pay for each 4-hour session of training you attend. That means they may credit you with 4 days' worth of training for a 2-day drill weekend. The National Guard and Reserves pay most of their members for about 63 training days during a fiscal year. That included 48 armory drills or training sessions, and 15 days of active training.

Please fill out this form, sign it, have your unit commander or commander's designee sign it, and return it to one of the 3 addresses listed on page 3.

VA FORM

21-8951-2

SUPERSEDES VA FORM 21-8951-2, MAY 2018.

Page 1

JAN 2020

 

VETERAN'S SOCIAL SECURITY NO.

SECTION III - ELECTION NOTICE

8.Complete the appropriate box below, sign this form, secure the signature of your unit commander or designee, and return the completed form to VA within 60 days. Check one of the following boxes. If you check neither, we will assume that you agree with the number of training pay days shown on the front of this form.

I agree that the number of training days shown on the front of this form is correct.

The number of training days shown on the front of this form is not correct. The following is the actual number of days for which I received training pay. (Enter correct information in the boxes below).

FISCAL YEAR

TRAINING DAYS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.Check only one of the following boxes:

I elect to waive VA benefits for the days indicated in order to retain my training pay.

I elect to waive military pay and allowances for the days indicated in order to retain my VA compensation or pension. NOTE: Checking this option will give most veterans LESS money.

I received no military pay and allowances during the fiscal year indicated on page 1 of this form.

SECTION IV - CERTIFICATION AND SIGNATURE

If we do not receive a waiver from you, we will assume that you wish to waive VA compensation or pension for the number of days printed on the front of the form. However, we will not adjust your award until we have advised you of the specific changes we propose to make.

NOTE: In the past you may have filed a one-time waiver of disability benefits which was to remain in effect until your reserve/guard status changed or you withdrew the waiver. That waiver is no longer valid. Annual waivers are again required.

10. SIGNATURE OF RESERVIST/GUARDSMAN (REQUIRED)

11. DATE SIGNED (MM/DD/YYYY)

I CERTIFY THAT to the best of my knowledge, the information shown above concerning the member's training days is correct.

12. SIGNATURE OF UNIT COMMANDER OR DESIGNEE (REQUIRED)

 

13. DATE SIGNED (MM/DD/YYYY)

14. NAME AND MAILING ADDRESS OF RESERVE/GUARD UNIT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

15. UNIT TELEPHONE NO. (Include Area Code)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enter International Phone Number (If applicable)

PENALTY: The law provides severe penalties which include fine or imprisonment, or both, for the willful submission of any statement or evidence of a material fact, knowing it to be false, or for fraudulent acceptance of any payment to which you are not entitled.

PRIVACY ACT NOTICE: 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 required to obtain or retain benefits. The requested information is considered relevant and necessary to determine maximum benefits under the law. The responses you submit are considered confidential (38 U.S.C. 5701). Information submitted is subject to verification through computer matching programs with other agencies.

RESPONDENT BURDEN: We need this information to determine whether you choose to waive your VA compensation or pension or your military pay and allowances for the days for which you received training pay (10 U.S.C. 12316 and 38 U.S.C. 5304(c). Title 38, United States Code, allows us to ask for this information. We estimate that you will need an average of 10 minutes to review the instructions, find the information, and complete the 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 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.

VA FORM 21-8951-2, JAN 2020

Page 2

WHERE TO SEND WRITTEN CORRESPONDENCE

MAILING ADDRESSES:

Compensation Claims

Department of Veterans Affairs

Compensation Intake Center

P.O. Box 4444

Janesville, WI 53547-4444

Pension & Survivors Benefit Claims

Department of Veterans Affairs

Pension Intake Center

P.O. Box 5365

Janesville, WI 53547-5365

Fiduciary

Department of Veterans Affairs

Fiduciary Intake

P.O. Box 95211

Lakeland, FL 33804-5211

These addresses serve all United States and foreign locations.

VA FORM 21-8951-2, JAN 2020

Page 3
Get Va 21 8951 PDF Form

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Details
Form Title Notice of Waiver of VA Compensation or Pension to Receive Military Pay and Allowances
OMB Approval Number OMB Approved No. 2900-0463
Expiration Date 01/31/2023
Time to Complete Respondents are estimated to take about 10 minutes to complete the form.
Governing Laws 10 U.S.C. 12316 and 38 U.S.C. 5304(c) govern this waiver process.
Requirements Veterans must choose between waiving VA benefits or military pay for training pay received.
Verification Process The Defense Manpower Data Center identifies reservists or guardsmen for eligibility based on Social Security Numbers.
Signature Requirement Both the reservist/guardsman and their unit commander or designee must sign the form.
Mailing Addresses Instructions are provided for where to send completed forms, depending on the claim type.
Confidentiality Notice Information is protected under the Privacy Act of 1974 and will not be disclosed without authorization.

Guidelines on Utilizing Va 21 8951

After gathering your personal information and understanding the training pay details, you are ready to complete the VA Form 21-8951. This form is essential for making your choice regarding VA compensation or pension versus military pay and allowances. Ensuring accuracy and clarity when filling it out will facilitate a smoother process.

  1. Personal Information: Start by filling out your name, Social Security number, VA file number, date of birth, and telephone number at the top of the form. If applicable, add your veteran service number and email address as well.
  2. Training Pay Verification: Confirm that the Social Security number listed is correct. Enter your telephone number if not already filled in. Specify the fiscal year and the number of days you received training pay. Understand that a fiscal year runs from October 1 to September 30.
  3. Election Notice: Indicate whether you agree with the number of training days shown. If you disagree, provide the correct number of days. Check one box based on whether you choose to waive VA benefits for training pay or the reverse.
  4. Certification and Signature: Sign and date the form in the designated areas. Your unit commander or designee must also sign and date the form to validate it. Add the name and mailing address of your reserve or guard unit, along with the unit's phone number.
  5. Submission: Make sure to return the completed form to the appropriate VA address listed on the form based on your claims type within 60 days of completion.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the purpose of the VA Form 21-8951?

The VA Form 21-8951 is used by veterans to elect whether to waive their VA compensation or pension benefits in order to receive military pay and allowances for specific training days. This form is essential for ensuring that individuals can make informed decisions regarding their benefits. By completing this form, veterans indicate their preference on whether to retain their military pay or continue receiving VA benefits for the days they received training pay.

How should I complete the VA Form 21-8951?

You can complete the form either online or by hand. If you choose to fill it out by hand, make sure to use a pen with permanent ink and write clearly. Fill in each letter carefully and completely mark circles to ensure smooth processing. Verify that the Social Security number you provide is accurate, as this is crucial for linking your details to the correct records. If adjustments to the training days listed are necessary, you should provide the correct numbers in the designated sections.

What happens if I do not submit this form?

If you fail to submit the VA Form 21-8951, the VA will assume that you wish to waive your VA compensation or pension benefits corresponding to the days indicated on the form. This means you will not receive your VA benefits for those particular days. Additionally, adjustments to your benefit can only be made after the VA has consulted you about specific changes.

What should I do if I have questions about completing the form?

If you have questions or need assistance with the form, you can call the VA's toll-free number at 1-800-827-1000. They can provide guidance on filling out the form and clarify any uncertainties regarding your benefits or the waiver process.

What are the consequences for providing false information on the VA Form 21-8951?

Providing misleading or false information on the VA Form 21-8951 can lead to serious consequences, including fines or imprisonment. The law mandates strict penalties for willfully submitting inaccurate information or fraudulently accepting benefits that you are not entitled to. The VA emphasizes the importance of honesty and accuracy in all claims and forms submitted.

Common mistakes

Filling out the VA Form 21-8951 can be straightforward, but mistakes can make the process unnecessarily complicated. One of the first common errors is providing incorrect personal information, such as the veteran's name or Social Security number. This information must be accurate and match what the VA has on record. A simple typo in your Social Security number can lead to significant delays in processing your benefits. Double-check every entry before submitting the form to ensure everything is correct.

Another frequent mistake involves misunderstanding the section on training pay information. Veterans sometimes miscalculate the number of training days they received pay for, leading to discrepancies on the form. Veterans should take a moment to confirm the correct number of training days reported by their military branch. If the number is not accurate, it is essential to indicate the correct number in the appropriate boxes on the form.

Not securing the required signatures is also a common oversight. Both the veteran and their unit commander or designee must sign the form. Missing one of these signatures can result in a rejection of the application. Ensuring that both signatures are obtained can save time and ensure that your application is processed smoothly.

Another mistake is failing to submit the form on time. The VA requires that the completed form be returned within 60 days. If veterans miss this deadline, they may face complications or delays in their benefits. It’s important to set reminders well in advance, so this crucial deadline isn’t overlooked.

Lastly, many veterans overlook the importance of keeping a copy of their completed form for their records. This simple action can provide reference and help clarify any future issues that might arise. Having a copy on hand can ease communication with the VA, should any questions or discrepancies occur regarding the submitted information.

Documents used along the form

The VA Form 21-8951 is essential for veterans who are deciding whether to waive their VA benefits to receive military pay and allowances. Along with this form, there are several other documents that can support the process and ensure a smooth experience. Below are five commonly used forms and documents.

  • VA Form 21-526EZ: This is the application for disability compensation and related compensation benefits. Veterans use this form to apply for financial support due to service-related disabilities.
  • DD Form 214: This document provides evidence of a veteran's service in the military. It details the character and duration of service, which is crucial when applying for VA benefits.
  • VA Form 21-4142: Known as the Authorization and Consent to Release Information to the VA, this form allows veterans to give permission for medical and other relevant records to be reviewed by the VA. This can help substantiate claims for benefits.
  • VA Form 21-4138: This is the Statement in Support of Claim form. Veterans can use it to provide additional information or evidence supporting their claim for VA compensation or pension benefits.
  • VA Form 21-0781: This form is a statement in support of a claim for service connection for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Veterans detail their traumatic experiences to help establish a connection between their service and their mental health condition.

These forms are crucial elements in navigating the VA claims process. Ensuring that all necessary documents are submitted can greatly enhance the chances of a favorable outcome for veterans seeking benefits.

Similar forms

  • VA Form 21-526EZ: This form is used for veterans to apply for disability compensation. Similar to the VA 21-8951 form, it requires personal information about the veteran and helps determine eligibility for benefits.

  • VA Form 21-4502: This document is used by veterans to apply for vocational rehabilitation. It shares similarities in that it requires verification of service and needs to be completed by the veteran before benefits can be assessed.

  • VA Form 21-534EZ: This form pertains to applying for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) and survivors' benefits. Like VA 21-8951, it necessitates accurate information regarding the veteran's service and any applicable claims.

  • VA Form 21-8861: Used to apply for an increased evaluation of a service-connected disability, this form similarly seeks specific training and service details from the claimant.

  • VA Form 27-333: This form serves as a request for a Certificate of Eligibility for Veterans Home Loan Benefits. It requires personal data similar to the VA 21-8951, helping the VA assess eligibility.

  • VA Form 21-0966: Veterans use this form to initiate a claim for disability compensation. It parallels the VA 21-8951 in that it also determines the benefit eligibility based on service history.

  • VA Form 21-0802: This document is utilized for applying for a loan guaranty. Like the VA 21-8951, it involves providing the veteran's service information for assessment of benefits.

  • VA Form 21-526: Veterans use this form for filing a claim for compensation. It is similar in structure and purpose, collecting essential information to support claims for VA benefits.

  • VA Form 21-22: This form designates an individual to represent a veteran in claims before the VA. It shares aspects of information gathering which are pivotal for processing claims.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the VA Form 21-8951, consider the following guidelines to ensure a smooth process:

  • Provide accurate personal information. Double-check your name, Social Security number, and contact details to prevent delays.
  • Complete all sections of the form. Omitting information may lead to processing issues or requests for clarification.
  • Sign the form where required. Both your signature and that of your unit commander are necessary for the form to be valid.
  • Consider submitting the form electronically if possible. This can expedite processing compared to mailing a handwritten form.
  • Review the deadlines. Return the completed form within 60 days to avoid having your claim treated as a waiver of VA benefits.
  • Read the instructions carefully. Understanding the implications of waiving benefits versus retaining military pay could significantly impact your financial situation.

At the same time, be cautious about the following:

  • Do not rush through the form. Take your time to ensure all responses are clear and accurate.
  • Refrain from using illegible handwriting. If completing the form by hand, write neatly to prevent misunderstandings.
  • Do not leave any questions unanswered. Incomplete sections can lead to delays or rejection of your waiver.
  • Avoid submitting the form without the necessary signatures. Both your signature and that of your commander are key to processing the form.
  • Do not assume the information is correct. Always verify your training days and other specifics before submission.
  • Do not ignore deadlines. Timeliness is crucial to prevent complications with your VA benefits.

Misconceptions

There are several common misconceptions regarding the VA Form 21-8951 that can lead to confusion among veterans. Understanding these misconceptions may help simplify the process for those completing the form. Below is a list that addresses some of these misunderstandings:

  • The form is only for veterans receiving disability compensation. Many believe this form is exclusively for those with disability benefits, but it pertains to both VA compensation and pension recipients.
  • You cannot complete the form online. While some think this form must be filled out manually, it can actually be completed online or by hand, providing flexibility.
  • Submitting this form automatically waives all VA benefits. A common misconception is that filling out this form means all VA benefits are waived. In reality, the decision is about specific days of training pay in relation to benefits.
  • Your unit commander’s signature is not needed. Some individuals think they can submit the form without their unit commander's approval. However, their signature is a required part of the process.
  • The form must be submitted immediately. It is believed that the form should be submitted right away, but it can be completed and sent within 60 days after signing.
  • There is a one-time waiver option for veterans. Many may think that once they provide a waiver, it will last indefinitely, but annual waivers are necessary. Previous one-time waivers are no longer valid.
  • It is not necessary to review training pay days. Veterans assume that the training pay days shown on the form are correct. It’s important to verify this information, as inaccuracies can affect benefits.

Recognizing these misconceptions may empower veterans and their families to navigate the VA Form 21-8951 with greater confidence and clarity.

Key takeaways

Understanding the VA Form 21-8951 is crucial for veterans who may need to waive their VA benefits to retain military pay. Here are some key takeaways:

  • This form allows veterans to indicate whether they choose to waive their VA compensation or pension in exchange for military training pay.
  • Filling out the form can be done online or by hand, but clarity and accuracy are essential to avoid processing delays.
  • Veterans must sign the form and obtain a signature from their unit commander or designee before submission.
  • It's important to submit the completed form within 60 days to avoid penalties or automatic assumptions regarding waivers.

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