Update to VA Form 21-8951: NOTICE OF WAIVER OF VA COMPENSATION OR PENSION TO RECEIVE MILITARY PAY AND ALLOWANCES

Background: Some Reservist and Guardsmen can file a VA claim and receive VA benefits while continuing to serve. Members must choose to waive their VA compensation/pension or their military pay and allowances for the days for which they received training pay. In the the current form block 8 there are two choices, agree that the number of training days in the listed fiscal year is correct or not and show the number of days. In Block 9 the member must choose one of three blocks:

1. I elect to waive military pay and allowances for the days indicated in order to retain my VA compensation or pension. NOTE: Checking this option will give most veterans LESS money.
2. I elect to waive VA benefits for the days indicated in order to retain my training pay.
3. I received no military pay and allowances during the fiscal year indicated on page 1 of this form.

There is no option for members who worked part of a fiscal year and filed a claim after retiring or separating from the National Guard or Reserves.

Recommend adding a fourth option in Block 9 of VA Form 21-8951 " I did not receive any VA compensation during the period in which I was still receiving military pay and allowances."

Additional information: This form needs to be verified and signed by the members commanding officer. This resolution requires no additional funding.