What happens if a dependency-related claim is not submitted within one year of gaining a new dependent?

When a dependency-related claim is not submitted within one year after gaining a new dependent, benefits are typically granted only from the time the claim is filed. This means that any additional benefits that could be provided for the dependent prior to the filing will not be awarded retroactively. The VA enforces this one-year requirement to encourage timely reporting of changes in dependency status. This policy helps maintain a standard procedure for evaluating claims and ensures that benefits are allocated based on current information.

While there are exceptions and specific circumstances that may allow for some backdating under different conditions, the general rule is that once the one-year window has passed, the entitlement to additional benefits related to that dependent will begin only from the date the claim is actually filed, not from when the dependency arose. This encourages veterans to submit claims promptly to avoid benefit gaps.