Who has priority for receiving accrued benefits from the VA?

The priority for receiving accrued benefits from the VA is typically given to the veteran's spouse. Accrued benefits refer to benefits that were due but unpaid at the time of a veteran's death. The spouse is considered the primary beneficiary entitled to these benefits because they have a direct relationship and often incurred expenses related to the veteran’s care.

This prioritization is part of the legal framework designed to support those who were in a close familial relationship with the veteran, as the spouse typically shares in the financial responsibilities and emotional impact of the veteran's condition. The law recognizes spouses as key supporters of veterans and provides them with direct access to any benefits the veteran was entitled to at the time of their passing.

Other individuals, such as siblings, friends, or cousins, have no formal claim to these benefits under VA regulations unless there are no surviving closer relatives to claim them. This hierarchy ensures that support is focused on those who were the most closely involved in the veteran's life.