When will the VA grant entitlement to additional compensation for a dependent if the required evidence is provided within one year?

The correct answer is the effective date of the rating decision. In Veterans Affairs policy, when a claim is made for additional compensation based on dependency, the VA typically assigns the date of entitlement based on the effective date of the rating decision that grants the increase in compensation. This means that if the evidence supporting the dependency is submitted within one year, the benefits can be applied retroactively to the date of the rating decision that recognizes the claimant's entitlement to that additional compensation.

Understanding this process is crucial for applicants, as it underscores the importance of timely submissions and maintaining awareness of the effective date linked to their rating decisions. Factors such as when the dependency arose or the exact date evidence is provided will not affect the ultimate effective date, as the VA prioritizes the rating decision's effective date in determining the start of additional compensation for dependents.