The amount of the special VA payment is the same as the amount of Social Security
benefits that would have been paid had the veteran died with the required insured
status. These amounts will be computed by SSA under the regular computation formulas
which were in effect when the veteran died. Apply the usual rules and procedures for
suspensions and terminations, and for determining the maximum (applying the rule of
deductions before reduction for the maximum). A certified earnings record and the
appropriate proofs are also required.
Example 1:
The DD-1300 (Report of Casualty) received from the Army shows that Tom Dash died in
military service on June 30, 1974, after 3 months of service. Because they had no
other covered work, they were neither fully nor currently insured. they were survived
by a widow and two children who would have been eligible for SS benefits had the veteran
died either fully or currently insured. The special non-insured VA payment applies;
the PIA and benefit amounts are computed as if insured status existed, and are the
amount of the special VA non-insured payment.
Example 2:
According to the VA Form 21-4180, Dick Park died on July 1, 1957, from a service-connected
cause as a result of service performed after September 15, 1940. They were survived
by a widow who is now age 60 and who would have been eligible for RSI benefits had
the veteran died fully insured. There was only a currently insured status. The special
VA payment applies; the PIA and benefit amounts are computed as if insured status
existed, and are the amount of the special VA non-insured payment.