VA Form 22-5490 Dependents' Application for VA Education Benefits

What to Submit With VA Form 22-5490?

The application should be submitted with supporting documents, providing backup and depth to the information on the form. These papers include the following:

• Copy of the Medicare card;
• Documents proving the applicant's relationship to the qualifying individual, such as a birth certificate, adoption papers, marriage license;
• DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty;
• Certification of full-time school enrollment (for children aged 18 to 23).

How to Fill Out VA Form 22-5490?

The form is made up of eight pages with general information and filling guidelines provided on the last three pages. VA Form 22-5490 instructions are as follows:

1. Enter your identifying information, contact information, direct deposit data, and the name, phone, and address of an emergency contact in Section I ("Applicant Information").
2. Section II ("Qualifying Individual Information") is for the personal information about the person, on whose behalf the benefits are claimed. Provide their name, enter their Social Security Number (SSN) or VA file number, and their date of death (if applicable. This part also requires the information, whether the qualifying individual is on active duty and if they or the applicant has a warrant or an outstanding felony.
3. Section III ("Relationship and Benefits Information") contains two sections in total. Section I should be filled if you are a spouse of the qualifying individual. If you are a child of a qualifying individual, fill out Section II.
4. Section IV ("Benefit and Type of Education or Training Information") requires information regarding the education or training you are claiming. This part should also include information, whether the applicant has a disability, that requires restorative or vocational training.
5. Fill out Section V ("Application History") if you have ever applied for any VA benefit programs.
6. Fill out Section VI ("Applicant's Military Service Information") if you have ever served on active duty in the armed forces and provide information about the service.
7. Enter information about your school, current and past employment in Section VII ("Education, Training and Employment Information").
8. Section VIII ("Remarks, Reminders and VA Education Benefits") is for additional remarks. This part can be also used to request a copy of the VA Education Benefits Pamphlet.
9. Sign the form in Section IX ("Certification and Signature of Applicant"). By signing and dating the form, you certify that all information provided is true and correct.
10. Fill out Section X ("Signature of Parent, Guardian or Custodian") if you are the guardian of a minor-applicant. Enter your name, mailing address, phone number, email address, and status. Sign and date the form.

Where to Mail VA Form 22-5490?

If you have selected a school or training establishment, mail the completed application to the VA Regional Processing Office for the region of that school's physical address. If you have not selected a school or training establishment, mail the completed application to the VA Regional Processing Office in your area of residence. Alternatively, VA Form 22-5490 can be completed and submitted online using the VA website.