Effective February 9, 2026, VA will stop making need-based apportionments for compensation, pension, and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) awards.
Until now, and in limited situations, VA was able to pay a portion of a VA beneficiary’s monetary benefits directly to the beneficiary’s dependent, referred to as an apportionment. To qualify, the dependent could not reside with the beneficiary, had to demonstrate financial need, and the apportionment could not cause financial hardship to the beneficiary. VA reviewed all requests for apportionments and determined whether a portion of the beneficiary’s monetary benefits could be sent directly to eligible dependents. The amount was based on comparisons of relative economic hardships and circumstances, including demonstrated financial need, the amount of compensation or pension benefits paid, and other resources or income.
VA will continue disbursing apportionments where a veteran or surviving spouse is incarcerated, or where an incompetent veteran without a fiduciary is institutionalized at government expense, without regard to financial need.
Because of their proximity, state courts have more expertise and authority in family law and are therefore better equipped to handle apportionment claims. VA apportionment decisions may conflict with the awards of better-situated state family courts which have the authority and expertise to make fully informed, accurate, and economically appropriate awards. These changes will only affect new claims for approvals and claims for adjustments of currently paid apportionments. VA will continue the apportionments currently being paid.
The rulemaking in this case is available for reference in the Federal Register of January 9.
