What do you do when a Veteran is physically unable to sign documents?

Unfortunately, a durable POA, which has been executed, witnessed and notarized, is not recognized by the VA. Additionally, the VA will not accept any state appointments i.e. guardianship unless the claimant is a minor child. 

Some VA forms can be signed by another in lieu of the Veteran or claimant i.e. the informal request can be signed by the appointed agent, if the claimant is incompetent and the 21-22a is included. However, some adjudicators have problems with this, although it is allowed by the CFR. 

Therefore, we recommend the claimant sign or make a mark (X) or thumb print on the forms.

Where the claimant makes a thumb print or mark (X), a signature affidavit can be used with two witnesses. Although, the form does not require a notary, it may help to have the thumb print, or mark and witnesses signatures notarized.

The 21-4142 can be signed by whomever the doctor recognizes as having authority.

To increase your monthly income, please contact us about a FREE HANDBOOK about VA Benefits, written by David Wingate, an accredited VA Attorney, of Senior Life Care Planning, LLC, go to info@seniorlcp.com or if you require additional information about VA Benefits, visit our Senior LCP's Website.

We also have a Blog on Elder Issues and Veteran's Benefits.

If you are not receiving our Newsletter, go ahead and subscribe to our free NEWSLETTER to stay on top of senior issues.

To increase your monthly income, please contact us about a FREE HANDBOOK about VA Benefits, written by David Wingate, an accredited VA Attorney, of Senior Life Care Planning, LLC, go to info@seniorlcp.com or if you require additional information about VA Benefits, visit our Senior LCP's Website.

We also have a Blog on Elder Issues and Veteran's Benefits.

If you are not receiving our Newsletter, go ahead and subscribe to our free NEWSLETTER to stay on top of senior issues.