Deceased Veteran’s Next of Kin:
- A. If the veteran is deceased, a Death Certificate or obituary is always required.
- B. Proof of Relationship is also required.
- a. The surviving spouse is listed on the death certificate (no extra proof necessary)
- 1. If the surviving spouse is incapable of signing, his/her Power of Attorney can sign the document but must provide a copy of that power of attorney.
- b. For the child of the veteran: Birth Certificate (parent’s names are on these)
- c. For the sibling of the veteran: Your birth certificate as well as the veteran’s.
- a. The surviving spouse is listed on the death certificate (no extra proof necessary)
Legal Guardian
- A. Court appointed guardianship must be provided
Power of Attorney
- A. Must provide GENERAL / DURABLE Power of Attorney.
- a. Financial POA ONLY will not be accepted
- b. Medical POA ONLY will not be accepted
Living Veteran Requesting Documents for Self
- A. No extra documentation is necessary.
Who qualifies as next-of-kin?
- Surviving spouse (not remarried)
- Parents
- Children
- Siblings