The appeal for recognition of E.B. as the stepchild of the Veteran for additional VA disability compensation, to include as a 'helpless child' based on permanent incapacity for self-support prior to attaining the age of 18, was denied because E.B. did not acquire his status as a stepchild before turning 18.
The deciding factor: The Board found that E.B., born in February 1974 and adopted by the Veteran's spouse in September 1995, did not meet the criteria for recognition as the Veteran's dependent 'stepchild' for VA purposes because he was over 18 years old at the time of his adoption.
- Claimed conditions
- Not specified in this decision
- How they argued it
- Not specified
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- November 20, 2024
- Citation
- 24033220
What this means for you
A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.
What you can do next
We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.
This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.