Use this form to apply for accrued benefits due the beneficiary but not paid prior to death. Do not complete it if you have applied for Survivor Benefits by using VA Form 21P-534EZ or 21P-535.
Time limits: a claim for accrued benefits must be filed within one year from the date of death. Exception: a claim for lump sum accrued benefits, within five years.
Debts, expenses and burial: complete this section only if you are claiming accrued benefits for reimbursement of expenses for last illness or burial.
Signature: if you sign with an "X," then you must have two people witness you as you sign. They must sign the form and print their names and addresses.
Where to send: mail it to the Pension Intake Center or take it to the nearest VA regional office.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Form Name | VA Form 21P-601 |
| Form Length | 5 pages |
| Fillable? | Yes |
| Fillable fields | 111 |
| Avg. time to fill out | 19 min |
| Edition | SEP 2025 |
| Who signs | The claimant |
| Matches the agency's file | Yes, checked October 2, 2026 |
| Other names | VA Form 21P-601, 21P-601, 21P 601, VA Form 601, Application for Accrued Amounts Due a Deceased Beneficiary |
| Official source | VA Form 21P-601 (Rev SEP 2025), Department of Veterans Affairs |
Va Form 21 601 isn’t the one you’re looking for?