Department of Veterans Affairs M21-1, Part III, Subpart iiVeterans Benefits Administration December 27, 2017Washington, DC 20420

Key Changes

Changes Included in This Revision

The table below describes the changes included in this revision of Veterans Benefits Manual M21-1, Part III, “General Claims Process,” Subpart ii, “Initial Screening and Determining Veteran Status.”

Notes: The term “regional office” (RO) also includes pension management center

(PMC) and Appeals Resource Center (ARC), where appropriate. Unless otherwise noted, the term “claims folder” refers to the official,

numbered, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) repository – whether paper or electronic – for all documentation relating to claims that a Veteran and/or his/her survivors file with VA.

Minor editorial changes have also been made to- improve clarity and readability- add references- update incorrect or obsolete references, and- bring the document into conformance with M21-1 standards.

Reason(s) for Notable Change CitationTo indicate that current contact information of a former service member might exist in the Veteran’s Information Solution web application.

M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, Chapter 3, Section C, Topic 1, Block a (III.ii.3.C.1.a)

To indicate that a claimant’s appointed Veterans service organization, agent, or attorney may submit a signed request and evidence of a legal name change for the purpose of changing a claimant’s name in VA systems.

III.ii.3.C.2.a

To indicate that a Y or D in the VADS (Veterans Assistance Discharge) field is an accepted indication of verified service.

To indicate that claims processors should correct incorrect service information that VA has verified through VADS.

To relocate (from III.ii.3.C.7.b to III.ii.3.C.7.a) information on how to update VA systems to reflect verified service.

III.ii.3.C.7.a

To indicate that claims processors should enter the first period of active duty for training when the claimant does not specify the period of service upon which his/her claim is based.

III.ii.3.C.7.f

Rescissions None

Authority By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Signature

Beth Murphy, DirectorCompensation Service

Distribution LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

Section C. System Updates

Overview

In This Section This section contains the following:

Topic Topic Name1 Updating Contact Information and Direct Deposit Processing2 Change of Name Processing3 Processing Third Party Information Requests4 Handling Power of Attorney (POA) Appointments5 Updating Electronic Systems for POA6 POA Codes7 Updating Military Service Information

1. Updating Contact Information and Direct Deposit Processing

Introduction This topic covers changing the claimant’s contact or direct deposit information in Share or the Veterans Benefits Management System (VBMS), including

receiving notice of change of contact information or direct deposit updating contact information in VBMS updating contact and/or direct deposit information in Share, and homeless Veteran address resources.

Change Date May 23, 2017December 27, 2017

a. Receiving Notice of a Change of Contact Information or Direct Deposit

Change of contact information or direct deposit notification may come in multiple formats including

a signed statement from the claimant telephone contact with the claimant, after identity has been verified

following guidance in M27-1, Part I, 3.15 undeliverable mail with the United States Post Office (USPS) forwarding

address sticker affixed to the envelope VA Form 20-572, Request for Change of Address/Cancellation of Direct

Deposit, and other Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) forms that contain the

information, and claimant data in the Veteran’s Information Solution (VIS) web application.

Important: Verify the claimant does not have a fiduciary prior to making a change of

address in the Veterans Benefits Management System (VBMS). The FID CATEGORY box on the GENERAL INFORMATION tab in Share will show Incompetent if the claimant has a VA-appointed fiduciary. For any claimant assigned a fiduciary do not- change the address- establish a direct deposit account, or- change a direct deposit account.

An address change request is to be sent to the Fiduciary Hub of jurisdiction via Veterans Assistance Inquiry (VAI).

Notes: Update addresses and other contact information in VBMS or Share. Update direct deposit information only in Share. VA Form 24-0296, Direct Deposit Enrollment, must be signed by the payee,

either the Veteran or the beneficiary.

An appointed Veterans service organization (VSO), agent, or attorney has the legal authority to change a claimant’s address in person, by telephone, or by letter when annotated in- Block 14 of the VA Form 21-22, Appointment of Veterans Service

Organization as Claimant's Representative, or- Block 11 on the VA Form 21-22a, Appointment of Individual as

Claimant's Representative.

References: For more information on changing addresses by power of attorneys (POAs) or by fiduciaries (for

incompetent Veterans), see M27-1, Part I, 7.5.i undeliverable mail procedures, see M21-1 Part III, Subpart iii, 1.B.96, and change of contact information and direct deposit request procedures, see

- M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.1.b and c, and- M27-1, Part I, 3.12, and

reviewing claimant data in VIS, see the VIS User Guide.

b. Updating Contact Information in VBMS

Follow the steps in the table below to update the address in VBMS.

Step Action1 Open VBMS and enter the claimant’s claims folder number in the

search box.2 Select OPEN PROFILE.3 Select EDIT VETERAN from the ACTIONS drop down menu.

Example:

4 Update address and contact information on the UPDATE VETERAN PROFILE screen.

Example:

5 Once updates are complete select SUBMIT to save the information.

Notes: Direct deposit cannot be updated in VBMS. Editing claimant contact information during the claims establishment

process will only update the end product (EP) being established. All contact information must be updated through the EDIT VETERAN function under the claimant’s PROFILE in VBMS.

The Veterans Service Network (VETSNET) Financial Accounting System (FAS) allows VA to prevent fraudulent mailing or payment address updates for beneficiaries who have been repeated targets of such incidents. Employees will receive an error message when attempting to update a profile of a beneficiary that has been the target of a confirmed incident. Follow the instructions in the message to complete the necessary update.

c. Updating Contact and/or Direct Deposit Information in Share

Share allows a user to update the claimant’s contact and/or direct deposit information when VA receives notice as described in M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.1.a. Follow the steps in the table below when an update to information in VA systems is required.

Step Action1 Open Share.2 Select the CHANGE OF ADDRESS command and complete the

following fields:- FILE NUMBER

- BENEFIT TYPE, and- PAYEE NUMBER.

Select SUBMIT.

Example:

3 Determine if the claimant’s address, direct deposit information, or both need to be updated.

4 Enter or edit the new address by completing the following fields:

ADDRESS 1 (ADDRESS 2 and 3, if necessary) CITY STATE ZIP CODE, and DAY TIME and NIGHT TIME (phone numbers), if available.

Example:

Notes:

If an update is needed for ... Then complete ...the address Steps 4, 6, and 7.the direct deposit information Steps 5, 6, and 7both all remaining steps.

Share will prompt the user to change the city if the city and zip code do not match.

Enter the apartment or unit number, if one exists, in the ADDRESS 1 box. Then enter the actual street address in the ADDRESS 2 box.

5 Enter or edit information in the DIRECT DEPOSIT fields. The CHANGE radio button must be checked in order for the information to be saved.

If the claimant does not have direct deposit ensure the USE FOR PAYMENT ADDRESS radio button is checked, and

if the claimant has direct deposit ensure the USE FOR PAYMENT ADDRESS radio button is not checked.

Example:

6 Select UPDATE.7 Update the evidence tab in VBMS for returned mail or address/direct

deposit change by

entering the claims folder number in the search box selecting the OPEN PROFILE button selecting MANAGE EVIDENCE from the ACTIONS drop down

menu selecting UPDATE UNSOLICITED entering the date of receipt as the earliest stamp date on the mail typing Returned mail, Address change, or Direct deposit change (as

applicable) in the DOCUMENT TYPE selecting ADD EVIDENCE, and selecting COMPLETE.

Note: The VETSNET FAS allows VA to prevent fraudulent mailing or payment address updates for beneficiaries who have been repeated targets of such incidents. Employees will receive an error message when attempting to update a profile of a beneficiary that has been the target of a confirmed incident. Follow the instructions in the message to complete the necessary update.

d. Homeless Veteran

Use the following resources when researching a homeless Veteran’s address:

Address Resources

Homeless Shelter Directory Regional Office Homeless Coordinator Directory , and HUD Exchange .

Reference : For more information on processing claims for homeless Veterans, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 1.D.2, and M27-1, Part II, 3.

2. Change of Name Processing

Introduction This topic contains information on changing a claimant’s name in the systems, including

evidence required for name changes, and processing name changes.

Change Date November 10, 2016December 27, 2017

a. Evidence Required for Name Changes

Unless otherwise noted in M21-1, Part III, Subpart iii, 8.1.b, VA requires the claimant or appointed VSO, agent, or attorney representing the claimant, to submit a signed request and sufficient evidence of a legal name change before the claimant’s name can be changed in VA systems.

Exception: A signed request and evidence is not required when VA is correcting a clerical mistake made by an employee when entering information into VA systems.

References: For more information on the general scope of a representative’s authority, see M21-1, Part I, 3.A.4.a evidence requirements for name changes, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart iii,

8.1.a, and types of acceptable evidence for vital information changes, see M21-1, Part

III, Subpart iii, 8.1.b.

b. Processing Name Changes

Follow the steps in the table below to change the Veteran or claimant’s name, once adequate evidence has been received.

Step Action1 Open Share2 Select the BIRLS (Beneficiary Identification and Records Locator

Subsystem) UPDATE command and complete the following fields:- FILE NUMBER- FIRST NAME, and- LAST NAME.

Select SUBMIT.

Example:

3 Select the second tab labeled NAME on the BIRLS UPDATE screen.

Example:

4 Select the CHANGE (RETAINS OLD AND NEW NAME) radio button.

5 Enter the new name in the UPDATE NAME fields at the bottom of the screen.

6 Select UPDATE.7 Upload the document to VBMS and add a permanent VBMS note.

Note: Until the Pension management centers (PMCs) fully transition to VBMS, substitute uploading by adding notes to Modern Awards Processing-Development (MAP-D).

3. Processing Third Party Information Requests

Introduction This topic contains information on processing third party information requests, including

use of VA Form 21-0845, Authorization to Disclose Personal Information to a Third Party

VA Form 21-0845 required criteria checklist, and updating systems for third party disclosure.

Change Date May 23, 2017

a. Use of VA Form 21-0845

VA Form 21-0845, Authorization to Disclose Personal Information to a Third Party, allows the National Call Centers (NCCs) and regional offices (ROs) to release specified information normally protected under privacy provisions to family members or other designated persons who are not POAs, agents, or fiduciaries.

Note: A Veteran may only designate one person or one organization on the form. In addition, only one form may be valid at a time.

Reference: For more information on third party release of information, see the M27-1, Part I, Chapter 7.6.

b. VA Form 21-0845 Required Criteria Checklist

To be valid, the VA Form 21-0845 must contain or meet the following criteria to be considered substantially complete:

the signature of the individual whose information is being released (Veteran, claimant, or beneficiary) and the date the form is signed

the name and claims folder number of the Veteran the contact information (address, daytime or cell phone number, or e-mail

address) the type of information authorized for release the length of time authorization is valid, if applicable a security question and answer the form date stamped by the VA the form designates only one person or organization, and if the individual whose information is being released has a court-ordered or

VA-appointed fiduciary, the signature of the fiduciary.

Important: For the purposes of this block, the term “Veteran” refers to the individual

- with an established VA claims folder, and- upon whose service VA benefits have been established or requested.

The signature cannot be someone other than the individual whose

information is being released, except in cases where the individual is incompetent. When the individual is found incompetent, the VA Form 21-0845 must be signed by the court-ordered or VA-appointed fiduciary.

Note: If the form does not contain substantially complete information required to authorize access return it with a letter explaining

- the reason for the return, and- the block(s) that must be completed, and

add a VBMS or MAP-D note stating VA Form 21-0845 returned on MM/DD/YY for completion.

c. Updating Systems for Third Party Disclosure

Once the VA Form 21-0845 is deemed acceptable, follow the steps in the table below to update systems for third party information disclosure.

Step Action1 Open Share.2 Select the CORPORATE FLASHES command on the left side of

the screen enter the claimant’s claims folder number in the FILE NUMBER

OR SSN field, and select SUBMIT.

3 Verify that Third Party Release flash is not shown in the top right field labeled SELECT RO FLASHES.

Note: If the flash is already present select CANCEL, and proceed no further.

4 Scroll down on the left top box labeled AVAILABLE RO FLASHES and highlight THIRD PARTY RELEASE

select the right arrow between the two upper boxes to move the flash to the right

select submit to save the flash and Share will display Update Complete, and

Select OK to return to the READY screen.

Example:

5 Add the following VBMS or MAP-D note:

VA Form 21-0845, Authorization to Disclose Personal Information to a Third Party, received and of record in favor of:

[type the individual named in Block 10 here].

If the claimant selected a limited time frame for the authorization, also note

VA Form 21-0845 expires on [MM/DD/YYYY].6 Upload the VA Form 21-0845 into the claimant’s electronic claims

folder (eFolder), and following confirmation of a successful upload, shred VA Form 21-

0845.

References: For more information on third party release of information, see M27-1, Part I, Chapter 7.6, and centralized mail (CM) intake procedures, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii,

1.E.

4. Handling POA Appointments

Introduction This topic contains information on handling representative appointment forms, including

when to process POA appointment forms endorsing a POA appointment form as limited acceptable versions of VA Form 21-22 reviewing a submitted VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a what constitutes a complete VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a requests to revoke or change POA handling an outdated VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a handling an incomplete VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a acknowledging receipt of VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a with paper

claims folders acknowledging receipt of VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a with eFolders unclear declaration handling appointment forms/letters when there is no record of a claims

folder, and processing claims from a POA without appointment forms/letters.

Change Date May 23, 2017

a. When to Process POA Appointment Forms

Process representative appointment forms as soon as they are received from the claimant.

b. Endorsing a POA Appointment Form as Limited

The appointment of a POA is considered limited to the claimant only, when a claimant other than the Veteran, such as a surviving spouse/relative or apportionee, appoints a representative. Limited representation must be clearly noted in order to avoid erroneous referral of the Veteran’s claims folder to the claimant’s representative.

Use the table below to clearly identify limited appointments.

If processing the POA appointment in a(n) ...

Then ...

paper format endorse the form as limited.electronic format add a permanent note in VBMS or

MAP-D indicating the limited appointment of representation, and

edit the document’s subject line to read Limited, after the document has been uploaded to the eFolder.

Reference: For more information on changing the subject line of a document in an eFolder, see the VBMS Job Aid titled Editing Document Properties.

c. Acceptable Versions of VA Form 21-22

VA can accept older versions of VA Form 21-22 until depletion of existing stock in accordance with M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 1.C.8.ba. Follow the guidance in M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.4.g, for establishment of representation when an outdated version of the VA Form 21-22 is received.

Important: Do not establish or change a claimant’s representation, unless the form is

complete as described in M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.4.e. Always accept older versions of forms submitted via the Stakeholder

Enterprise Portal (SEP) and Veterans Online Application (VONAPP) Direct Connect (VDC). The form versions included in Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) applications for electronic submission may significantly lag behind the release of new form versions.

References: For more information on submission of VA Form 21-22 via SEP/VDC, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart i,

4.B.1.c, and processing an incomplete VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a, see M21-1,

Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.4.h.

d. Reviewing a Submitted VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a

Take the following actions when reviewing a VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a:

check the form for compliance with the guidance in M21-1, Part I, 3.B.2.d regarding 38 U.S.C. 7332 and authorization for disclosure of protected records

check that the form is complete, as described in M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.4.e

process each copy of the properly completed and current form, and update electronic systems to reflect the appointment.

Note: A VA Form 21-22 received as part of an Integrated Disability Evaluation System (IDES) claim must have the word Veteran replaced with Service Member in Block 1.

References: For more information on receiving a VA Form 21-22 from an IDES participant, see M21-1, Part III,

Subpart i, 2.D.4.a receiving a VA Form 21-22a without an attorney fee agreement, see M21-1,

Part I, 3.C, and

updating POA in electronic systems, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.5.

e. What Constitutes a Complete VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a

Use the table below to determine whether the VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a is complete.

Form Type Required InformationVA Form 21-22 enough information to identify the Veteran/claimant

the name of the service organization signature of the Veteran/claimant with a corresponding

date of signature, and signature of the representative acting on behalf of the

service organization with a corresponding date of signature.

Note: All forms received on or after April 22, 2013, require a VSO signature unless otherwise noted in this block.

Exceptions: ROs are required to accept a VA Form 21-22 with or

without the VSO’s signature if received between June 19, 2012 (the date the first revision of the form containing a VSO signature block was released to the public), and April 21, 2013 (the date the first revision of the form containing the VSO signature block was made available in SEP/VDC).

Due to a technical issue, VA Forms 21-22 submitted through SEP/VDC between March 22, 2015, and May 3, 2015, do not show an electronic signature from the Veteran. The forms without an electronic signature from this period remain valid for VA purposes.

Reference: For more information on requirements for establishment of POA through VDC/SEP, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart i, 4.B.1.c.

VA Form 21-22a enough information to identify the Veteran/claimant the name of the individual appointed as the

Veteran/claimant’s representative identification of the type of representation

- attorney- agent- individual providing representation under 38 CFR

14.630 (claimant and representative signatures and

the address of the representative must be provided), or

- service organization representative signature of the Veteran/claimant with a corresponding

date of signature, and signature of the individual providing representation on

a one time basis, representative of an accredited VSO, agent, or attorney with a corresponding date of signature.

References: For more information on representation by an individual to prepare, present, and

prosecute one claim, see 38 CFR 14.630, and requirements regarding who can sign on behalf of an

individual deemed incompetent, minor, or otherwise incapacitated person without a guardian, see 38 CFR 14.631(a)(iii).

Important: Completion of Block 3B of VA Form 21-22 is optional. If completed, there is no need to verify that the specific representative listed in Block 3B is accredited. This form documents the appointment of the entire service organization listed in Block 3A and does not limit action to a specific representative within the organization.

References: For more information on handling revoked or terminated representation, see M21-1, Part I,

3.A.6.dc, and signatures by an official representative of the VSO indicating acceptance

of the claimant’s appointment, see 38 CFR 14.631.

f. Requests to Revoke or Change POA

Take the following actions when a request to revoke POA is received or a new POA is appointed:

update all systems as described in M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.5.a, and notify the revoked representative.

The paper form should be annotated with the reason for revocation and the date the revocation is being processed. Photocopy the annotated form and provide the copy to the former representative.

The electronic copy of VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a must be edited to show that the POA status has been revoked. Follow the steps in the table below to properly annotate and identify the revoked form in the eFolder.

Step

Action

1 Open the electronic copy of the form.2 Print the document, selecting Adobe PDF as the printer.

3 Open the document in Adobe Acrobat Pro.4 Click the ADD TEXT function and click inside the box where the

revocation reason and date is entered.5 Type in the reason for revocation and the date it is being processed.6 Save the document on your desktop.7 Print a copy of the annotated form and send to the former

representative.8 Upload the annotated document to the eFolder with the following

attributes:

In the document field … Enter …SUBJECT Revoked.CATEGORY – TYPE the same type as the electronic

form being revoked.SOURCE Veteran.DATE OF RECEIPT the same date as the electronic

form being revoked.9 Add a note indicating which POA was revoked.

References: For more information on updating POA in electronic systems, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.5 handling revoked or terminated representation, see M21-1, Part I, 3.A.6.dc uploading eFolder documents, see the VBMS Job Aid – Adding Documents

into VBMS eFolders, and changing the subject line of a document in an eFolder, see the VBMS Job

Aid - Editing Document Properties .

g. Handling an Outdated VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a

Send a development letter requesting completion of the current version of the VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a, when a claimant submits an outdated version of the form. With the letter

provide the current version of the form for completion, and return the outdated form.

Important: If the outdated form was received in the CM portal, print a copy of the form, create the development letter, and associate a copy of the development letter and the mail with the eFolder.

Reference: For more information on handling outdated forms, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 1.C.78.

h. Handling an Incomplete VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a

Use the procedure below if VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a is incomplete.

If the VSO is ... Then ...located in the same building as the RO

forward the form to the VSO for completion, and

check all necessary incomplete items on the form.

not located in the same building as the RO, and

there is an EP pending

return the form to the claimant with a letter, and

check all necessary incomplete items on the form in red ink.

not located in the same building as the RO, and

there is no EP pending

establish an EP 400 Correspondence return the form to the claimant with a letter check all necessary incomplete items on the

form in red ink, and clear the EP 400.

Important: If the incomplete form was received in the CM portal, print a copy of the form, take the appropriate action identified in the table above, then associate the mail with the eFolder.

Note: The VBMS development action Form incomplete - Items checked in red needed,” can be found under the category GENERAL.

Reference: For more information on VBMS development actions, see the VBMS User Guide.

i. Acknowledging Receipt of VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a With Paper Claims Folders

The current versions of VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a no longer have multiple copies to be acknowledged and sent to the POA or representative.

To acknowledge receipt of these forms for claimants with paper claims folders use the below table.

If the form is a … Then ...paper VA Form 21-22 enter in the Acknowledged block

- the current date- your initials, and

as applicable, complete the Sent to block.paper VA Form 21-22a annotate with

the current date, and Acknowledged.

an electronic VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a

upload the document from the CM portal to the eFolder.

Note: Users may view the form electronically in VBMS.

paper original of either reverse file the form on the right flap of the claims

VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a

folder.

j. Acknowledging Receipt of VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a With eFolders

The current versions of VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a no longer have multiple copies to be acknowledged and sent to the POA or representative.

Upload the form from the CM portal to the eFolder. No further action to acknowledge receipt of the form is required.

Notes: The documents uploaded from the CM portal are shown in VBMS. The service organization is able to view the eFolder for Veterans or

claimants they represent. If a paper folder exists for Vocational Rehabilitation and Education

(VR&E), Education, Insurance, or Loan Guaranty, those business lines have access to VBMS and are able to print the form.

k. Unclear Declaration

If a private attorney’s declaration of representation is unclear whether it is limited to a certain claim/appeal or unlimited, write to the attorney and ask for clarification. Reverse-file any such clarification in the claims folder, or upload to the eFolder, whichever is applicable.

l. Handling Appointment Forms/Letters When There Is No Record of a Claims Folder

Use the table below to handle the receipt of VA Form 21-22, VA Form 21-22a, or the appointment letter when there is no record of a claims folder or a pending claim.

If … Then update the POA and …the form/letter indicates a claim for benefits administered by another business line

send the form/letter to the appropriate business line as indicated in M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 1.E.6.a.

there is no indication of a claim for benefits being submitted with the form/letter

associate the form/letter with the eFolder after the Veteran is established in the corporate record.

m. Processing Claims From a POA Without Appointment

For a POA to be authorized to submit claims on behalf of a claimant, there must be an appointment form or letter executed at the time of claim submission. A claim filed by an accredited representative of a VSO, agent,

Forms/Letters non-licensed individual, or attorney prior to the completion of the necessary VA Form 21-22, VA Form 21-22a, or appointment letter is invalid and has no legal effect.

Use the table below to determine how to process claim submissions from a POA when the required appointment form/letter is not of record.

If ... Then ...the submitted claim form contains the claimant’s signature

accept the submission as a valid claim.

the submitted claim form does not contain the claimant’s signature

process the submission as a request for application under M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 2.C.2.b3.a.

the RO subsequently receives an appointment form or letter dated on or before the submission of the claim in question

accept the submission as a valid claim.

Reference: For information on POA authority to submit claims, see 38 CFR 14.630 , and M21-1, Part I, 3.A.4.a.

5. Updating Electronic Systems for POA

Introduction This topic contains information on updating electronic systems for POA, including

required system updates for changes in POA appointments updating the POA in Share handling preexisting representative relationships updating electronic systems to reflect POA access to the eFolder, and updating POA permissions when no EP is pending.

Change Date November 10, 2016

a. Required System Updates for Changes in POA Appointments

The following system updates are required when a claimant appoints a new representative or revokes a current representative:

Share- update the Beneficiary Identification and Records Locator Subsystem

(BIRLS)- perform a pending issue file (PIF) update to provide POA

access to the eFolder, and change of address authority.

Veterans Appeals Control and Locator System (VACOLS) (if there is an active appeal pending at the RO).

Note: If the only update needed is POA access to the eFolder, this can be performed through VBMS, as described in M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.5.d.

References: For more information on updating POA in VACOLS, see the VACOLS User Guide, and providing POA access to the eFolder, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii,

3.C.5.d.

b. Updating the POA in Share

Follow the steps in the table below to update Share for the appointment of a representative, after receiving a current and complete VA Form 21-22 or VA Form 21-22a.

Step Action1 Open the claimant’s profile by opening Share and

selecting the BIRLS UPDATE command entering the claimant’s claims folder number in the FILE

NUMBER OR SSN field, and selecting SUBMIT.

2 Review the POWER OF ATTORNEY field and determine if the POA needs to be updated in BIRLS.

If an update is ... Then ...needed use the LOCATE field under the

POWER OF ATTORNEY SEARCH to find the POA

select the POA select UPDATE perform the PIF INQUIRY

command, and proceed to Step 4 if there are any

active EPs. They will require additional steps to reflect the POA update.

Note: Proceed directly to Step 5 if there are no active EPs, or the active EPs do not need a POA update.

needed but the POA could not be located in the POWER OF ATTORNEY SEARCH

proceed to the next step.

not needed select CANCEL perform the PIF INQUIRY

command, and proceed to Step 4 if there are any

active EPs. They will require additional steps to reflect the POA update.

Note: Proceed directly to Step 5 if there are no active EPs, or the active EPs do not need a POA update.

3 Locate the POA using the Office of General Counsel (OGC) Accreditation Search.

If the POA was ... Then ...found select POWER OF ATTORNEY

SEARCH select POA code 099 in the

LOCATE field select UPDATE follow the procedure in M21-1,

Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.6 to have the POA added to the corporate database

add a VBMS or MAP-D note explaining the situation and actions taken, and

proceed to the next step.not found add a VBMS or MAP-D note

explaining why the POA could not be updated, and

forward the information to the Agent and Attorney Fee Coordinator (AAFC) for follow-up with the POA. No further action is required.

Reference: For more information on AAFC’s responsibilities in handling non-accredited POA submissions, see M21-1, Part I, 3.C.1.d M21-1, Part I, 3.C.6, and M21-1, Part I, 3.C.7.

4 Follow the steps in the table below to update the POA on a pending EP.

Step Action1 Make note of specific EP(s) and claim label(s) of any

active EP(s) pending after performing the PIF INQUIRY command.

2 Select the PIF CHANGE command and complete the following fields based on the pending EP:

BENEFIT TYPE PAYEE NUMBER, and CLAIM TYPE.

4 Update the POA using the POWER OF ATTORNEY SEARCH command to locate the POA code and select UPDATE.

5 Update the AUTH’D POA ACCESS drop-down to grant or deny POA access to the claims folder based on the guidance provided in M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.5.d.

6 Checkmark the CADD AUTH’D radio button to allow a POA to change the claimant’s address if the

Authorization to Change Claimant’s Address box on VA Form 21-22, or

Authorization for Representative to Act on Claimant’s Behalf to Change Claimant’s Address box on VA Form 21-22a is marked.

7 Select UPDATE.5 Determine if the POA is a private attorney or agent.

Notify the AAFC that the appointment should be reviewed for fee agreements or additional development if the POA is identified as a private attorney or agent. Otherwise, no further action is needed.

Notes: The POA for a claimant other than the Veteran can be updated by

- establishing an EP 400- selecting the POA,- choosing the corresponding Payee Code based on the claimant’s

relationship to the Veteran, and- completing the claims establishment.

Review the Veteran’s existing relationships and information to ensure a duplicate relationship is not created.

References: For more information on POA codes, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.6 accreditation of VSOs, go to OGC Accreditation Search updating POA, reviewing, and editing relationships and performing PIF

commands in Share, see the Share User Guide , and establishing claims in VBMS, see M21-1 Part III, Subpart ii, 3.D.2.c.

c. Handling Preexisting Representative Relationships

When an attorney files a limited declaration of representation with respect to a particular claim or claims, it is possible that a preexisting representative relationship with a VSO, agent, or other licensed attorney remains in effect with respect to all other claims.

However, even if the attorney’s limited declaration of representation does not completely revoke all preexisting representative relationships, change the POA code to the attorney’s designated three-digit identifier.

Notes: If the claimant was previously represented by a VSO, changing the POA code

to the attorney’s three-digit identifier blocks the VSO’s access to corporate records concerning the claimant. Therefore, access to the claimant’s record under the preexisting representative relationship will be limited to a review of the claims folder.

Update VBMS to reflect the limited representation by adding a VBMS note listing the particular claim or claims that the attorney indicates in his or her declaration of representation.

d. Updating Electronic Systems to Reflect POA Access to the eFolder

If a claimant has authorized disclosure to an appointed representative of records protected by 38 U.S.C. 7332 (relating to drug abuse, alcoholism or alcohol abuse, or infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or sickle cell anemia) without limitation, then update Share or VBMS to provide the POA access to the eFolder.

Important: Authorization to sensitive records is granted by the claimant checking either Box 12 on VA Form 21-22 or Box 9 on VA Form 21-22a.

Use the table below to determine how to update electronic systems to reflect POA access to sensitive information.

If the claimant … And … Then …authorizes a representative’s access with no limitations to records protected by 38 U.S.C. 7332

Share will be used to update VA’s computer systems

select Yes from the drop-down box in the AUTH’D POA ACCESS field on the 101 PENDING ISSUE/CORPORATE CONTROL ESTABLISHMENT screen.

VBMS will be used to update VA’s computer systems

click on the VETERAN down arrow on the VETERAN PROFILE screen

select POA, and place a check mark in the ALLOW

POA ACCESS TO DOCUMENTS box.indicates any limitation to or does not authorize a representative’s access to records protected by 38 U.S.C. 7332

Share will be used to update VA’s computer systems

select No from the drop-down box in the AUTH’D POA ACCESS field on the 101 PENDING ISSUE/CORPORATE CONTROL ESTABLISHMENT screen.

VBMS will be used to update VA’s computer systems

click on the VETERAN down arrow on the VETERAN PROFILE screen

select POA, and ensure the ALLOW POA ACCESS TO

DOCUMENTS box is blank.

Important: A PIF CHANGE is necessary to update disclosure of records when there is a pending claim, and representation is changed via BIRLS.

Note: Details regarding POA access are viewable on the Share ALL RELATIONSHIP tab of CORPORATE INQUIRY, and GENERAL INFORMATION screen under AWARDS/RATINGS.

References: For more information on executing a PIF CHANGE to update POA, see Step 4 of M21-1, Part III,

Subpart ii, 3.C.5.b using Share to allow POA access to the eFolder when no EP is pending, see

M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.5.e claims establishment, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.D.2, and records protected by 38 U.S.C. 7332, see M21-1, Part I, 3.B.2.

e. Updating POA Permissions When no EP Is Pending

Authority to change a claimant’s address, as well as access to a Veteran’s claims folder, can be provided to the current POA by establishing an EP 400 in Share and making the necessary updates during the establishment process.

Follow the steps in the table below to update POA permissions.

Step Action1 Begin establishment of an EP 400 Correspondence in Share.2 While on the101 PENDING ISSUE/CORPORATE CONTROL

ESTABLISHMENT screen, make the permission updates in following fields, as necessary:

select Yes or No from the AUTH’D POA ACCESS drop-down menu, and

check or uncheck the CADD AUTH’D radio button.3 Complete the establishment of the EP 400 and clear the EP.

References: For more information on establishing an EP in Share, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.D.2.e changing addresses by POAs or by fiduciaries (for incompetent Veterans),

see M27-1, Part I, 7.5.i, and identifying if the POA should have permission to

- change the claimant’s address, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.1.a, and- access the claims folder, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.5.d.

6. POA Codes

Introduction This topic contains information on the POA codes, including

notes on POA codes adding POA codes to corporate National organization POA codes listed alphabetically National organization POA codes listed numerically State organization POA codes listed alphabetically, and State organization POA codes listed numerically.

Change Date May 23, 2017

a. Notes on POA Codes

POA codes are shown by the corporate record as either alphanumeric codes or by the name of the organization. BIRLS shows the codes prefixed by a zero.

State VSO codes are based on the last two digits of the RO number. Only one number is used when there is more than one RO to a state.

States not listed have no recognized VSO. Private attorneys or agents submitting requests to represent a VA claimant

must be verified as accredited by OGC, per 38 CFR 14.629.

Reference: For a list of accredited VSOs, attorneys, and agents, see the OGC Accreditation Search.

b. Adding POA Codes to Corporate

The National Service Desk (NSD) is responsible for adding new POA codes to the corporate database. This occurs when a POA is not located in corporate but is found in the OGC Accreditation Search .

Follow the procedures in the table below to have the POA added to the corporate database.

Stage Description1 Contact the NSD at ITSC@va.gov and include the

POA code name of agent, attorney, or representative role, such as

- claims agent- an attorney, or- VSO representative

POA’s contact information (address, phone, fax, and e-mail), and

a request to route the ticket to the VBA CORP DA team for processing.

2 Update the claimant’s profile to include POA code 099 as a placeholder until the corporate database is updated.

Note: The NSD will open a trouble ticket to track the issue. When the POA code has been added to the corporate database, the NSD will notify the employee who submitted the request and close the ticket.

Reference: For more information on updating POA in Share, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.5.b.

3 The employee who receives notification from the NSD

contacts the station AAFC, and informs the AAFC the corporate database now includes the new

POA code.4 Upon receiving the notification of a newly established POA code,

the AAFC will

contact the individual attorney or agent to identify any other Veterans or claimants they represent

verify the validity of the other clients VA Form 21-22a, and update all records as necessary.

Note: Historically, these individuals may have been assigned a 099 (no exclusive contact) or 066 (exclusive contact) code and will not automatically be displayed for the specific attorney in Share, VBMS, or SEP.

c. National Organization POA Codes Listed Alphabetically

The table below lists the POA codes for National VSOs alphabetically.

National Organization Name POA CodeAfrican American PTSD Association 091American Ex-Prisoners of War, Inc. 065American GI Forum, National Veterans Outreach Program 068American Legion 074American Red Cross 075American Veterans/AMVETS 077Armed Forces Services Corporation 078Army and Navy Union, USA 079Associates of Vietnam Veterans of America 100Blinded Veterans Association 080Catholic War Veterans of the U.S.A. 081Disabled American Veterans 083Fleet Reserve Association 085

Gold Star Wives of America, Inc. 012Italian American War Veterans of the United States, Inc. 095Jewish War Veterans of the United States 086Legion of Valor of the United States of America, Inc. 087Marine Corps League 088Military Officers Association of America A21Military Order of the Purple Heart 089National Amputation Foundation, Inc. 024National Association for Black Veterans, Inc. 084National Association of County Veterans Service Officers 064National Veterans Legal Services Program 082National Veterans Organization of America 094Navy Mutual Aid Association 093Non Commissioned Officers Association of the U.S.A. 062Paralyzed Veterans of America, Inc. 071Polish Legion of American Veterans, U.S.A. 003Swords to Plowshares, Veterans Rights Organization, Inc. 043The Retired Enlisted Association 007The Veterans Assistance Foundation, Inc. 063The Veterans of the Vietnam War, Inc. & The Veterans Coalition

4R4

United Spanish War Veterans of the United States 096United Spinal Association, Inc. 090Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States 097Veterans of World War I of the U.S.A., Inc. 098Vietnam Era Veterans Association 029Vietnam Veterans of America 070The Wounded Warrior Project 00V

d. National Organization POA Codes Listed Numerically

The table below lists the POA codes for National organizations numerically.

POA Code National Organization NameA21 Military Officers Association of America00V The Wounded Warrior Project007 The Retired Enlisted Association012 Gold Star Wives of America, Inc.024 National Amputation Foundation, Inc.029 Vietnam Era Veterans Association043 Swords to Plowshares, Veterans Rights Organization, Inc.062 Non-commissioned Officers Association of the U.S.A.064 National Association of County Veterans Service Officers065 American Ex-Prisoners of War, Inc.

068 American GI Forum, National Veterans Outreach Program070 Vietnam Veterans of America071 Paralyzed Veterans of America, Inc.074 American Legion075 American Red Cross077 American Veterans/AMVETS078 Armed Forces Services Corporation079 Army and Navy Union, USA080 Blinded Veterans Association081 Catholic War Veterans of the U.S.A.082 National Veterans Legal Services Program083 Disabled American Veterans084 National Association for Black Veterans, Inc.085 Fleet Reserve Association086 Jewish War Veterans of the United States087 Legion of Valor of the United States of America, Inc.088 Marine Corps League089 Military Order of the Purple Heart090 United Spinal Association, Inc.091 African American PTSD Association093 Navy Mutual Aid Association094 National Veterans Organization of America095 Italian American War Veterans of the United States, Inc.096 United Spanish War Veterans of the United States097 Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States098 Veterans of World War I of the U.S.A., Inc.100 Associates of Vietnam Veterans of America4R4 The Veterans of the Vietnam War, Inc. & The Veterans

Coalition

e. State Organization POA Codes Listed Alphabetically

The table below lists the POA codes for State organizations alphabetically by State.

State State Organization Name POA CodeAlabama Department of Veterans Affairs 022American Samoa

Veterans Affairs Office 067

Arizona Veterans Service Commission 045Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs 050California Department of Veterans Affairs 044Colorado Division of Veterans Affairs 039Connecticut Department of Veterans' Affairs 008Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs 060

Florida Department of Veterans Affairs 017Georgia Department of Veterans Service 016Guam Office of Veterans Affairs 056Hawaii Office of Veterans Services 059Idaho Division of Veterans Services 047Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs 028Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs 033Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs 052Kentucky Center for Veterans Affairs 027Louisiana Department of Veterans' Affairs 021Maine Department of Veterans Services 002Maryland Veterans' Service Commission 013Massachusetts Department of Veterans Service 4R3Michigan Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency 8FEMinnesota Department of Veterans Affairs 035Mississippi Veterans Affairs Board 023Missouri Veterans Commission 031Montana Veterans Affairs Division 036Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs 034Nevada Commission for Veterans Affairs 054New Hampshire State Veterans Council 073New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans' Affairs 009New Mexico Veterans' Service Commission 040New York Division of Veterans' Affairs 006Northern Mariana Islands

Veterans Affairs Office 053

North Carolina Division of Veterans Affairs 018North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs 037Ohio Department of Veterans Services 025Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs 051Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs 048Pennsylvania Department of Military Affairs Bureau for

Veterans Affairs010

Puerto Rico Public Advocate for Veterans Affairs 055Rhode Island Division of Veterans Affairs 004South Carolina Division of Veterans Affairs 019South Dakota Division of Veterans Affairs 038Tennessee Department of Veterans' Affairs 020Texas Veterans Commission 049Utah Office of Veterans Affairs 041Vermont Veterans Affairs Section, Military

Department005

Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs 032Virginia Department of Veterans Affairs 014Washington Department of Veterans Affairs 046West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance 015Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs 030

Wyoming Wyoming Veterans Affairs Commission 869

f. State Organization POA Codes Listed Numerically

The table below lists the POA codes for State organizations numerically.

POA Code State State Organization Name002 Maine Department of Veterans Services004 Rhode Island Division of Veterans Affairs005 Vermont Veterans Affairs Section, Military

Department006 New York Division of Veterans' Affairs008 Connecticut Department of Veterans' Affairs009 New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans'

Affairs010 Pennsylvania Department of Military Affairs Bureau for

Veterans Affairs013 Maryland Veterans' Service Commission014 Virginia Department of Veterans Affairs015 West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance016 Georgia Department of Veterans Service017 Florida Department of Veterans Affairs018 North Carolina Division of Veterans Affairs019 South Carolina Division of Veterans Affairs020 Tennessee Department of Veterans' Affairs021 Louisiana Department of Veterans' Affairs022 Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs023 Mississippi Veterans Affairs Board025 Ohio Department of Veterans Services027 Kentucky Center for Veterans Affairs028 Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs030 Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs031 Missouri Veterans Commission032 Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs033 Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs034 Nebraska Department of Veterans' Affairs035 Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs036 Montana Veterans Affairs Division037 North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs038 South Dakota Division of Veterans Affairs039 Colorado Division of Veterans Affairs040 New Mexico Veterans' Service Commission041 Utah Office of Veterans Affairs044 California Department of Veterans Affairs

045 Arizona Veterans Service Commission046 Washington Department of Veterans Affairs047 Idaho Division of Veterans Services048 Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs049 Texas Veterans Commission050 Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs051 Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs052 Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs053 Northern

Mariana IslandsVeterans Affairs Office

054 Nevada Commission for Veterans Affairs055 Puerto Rico Public Advocate for Veterans Affairs056 Guam Office of Veterans Affairs059 Hawaii Office of Veterans Services060 Delaware Commission of Veterans Affairs067 American

SamoaVeterans Affairs Office

073 New Hampshire State Veterans Council4R3 Massachusetts Department of Veterans Services869 Wyoming Wyoming Veterans Commission8FE Michigan Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency

7. Updating Military Service Information

Introduction This topic contains information on updating military service information, including

military service verification information required to verify military service updating multiple periods of active military service updating VA systems for

- active service based on a single day of active duty for training (ADT) or inactive duty for training (IADT)

- active service based on a multiple periods of ADT or IADT- claims when ADT or IADT is the only service, and- active service based on multiple Title 10 activations of seven days or less.

Change Date May 23, 2017December 27, 2017

a. Military Service Verification

All periods of active service must be verified and updated in the VA systems. ROs are responsible for ensuring active service is updated in both BIRLS and the Veteran’s corporate record through Participant ProfileVerified service is shown by

a Y or D in the VADS (Veterans Assistance Discharge System) field of the BIRLS VET’S IDENTIFICATION DATA tab in Share, or

the claims processor- entering Y in the VERIFIED field, if using BIRLS, and- checking the SERVICE VERIFIED box in Participant Profile.

In some situations, service connection (SC) is awarded for a death, disease, or injury incurred or aggravated during a period of duty other than full-time active duty in the Armed Forces. In these situations, the period of duty during which the death, disease, or injury occurred is considered active military service for VA compensation purposes.

Example: SC may be awarded for an injury incurred in the line of duty (LOD) during inactive duty for training (IADT). Once it is determined that SC is in order for that injury, the period of IADT is considered active military service for VA compensation purposes.

Important: Claims processors are responsible for ensuring that any unverified period of

active duty is entered into VA systems as soon as VA is notified of the (unverified) period of active duty. The service will be marked as verified after VA receives all information required to verify military service.

Each RO employee must check to ensure all periods of active service are

updated and verified in the appropriate system(s) when undertaking any claim action.

All periods of active service must be updated and verified in the systems by the rating activity prior to completion of the rating decision. Failure to do so will result in inaccurate or incomplete service displayed on the rating decision Codesheet. However, the completion and authorization of a rating decision granting SC based on a period of active duty for training (ADT) or IADT is required before the service is considered active service. Therefore, it is appropriate to enter the period of ADT or IADT into the systems after completion of the rating decision.

Service information in VA systems that has been verified through VADS but is proven to be incorrect by other credible evidence should be updated or replaced with the correct information, however applicable.

Exceptions: Claims worked by the pension management centers only require verification

of the period of service on which the claim is based. The other periods of active service, if they exist, must be entered in VA systems but do not need to be verified to make a decision on the claim. If it is uncertain what period of service on which the claim is based, then all periods of active service must be verified.

Specific procedures for updating VA systems to show service for- a single day of ADT or IADT are located in M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii,

3.C.7.d- multiple periods of ADT or IADT are located in M21-1, Part III, Subpart

ii, 3.C.7.e- claims when ADT or IADT is the only service are located in M21-1, Part

III, Subpart ii, 3.C.7.f, and- multiple activations under 10 U.S.C (also referred to as Title 10 service)

of seven days or less are located in M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.7.g.

References: For more information on duty periods, see

- 38 CFR 3.6 , and- 38 U.S.C. 101(24)

evidence that is acceptable for the purpose of verifying service, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 6.B.3.a and c

using the BIRLS VET’S IDENTIFICATION DATA tab in Share, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 6.B.3.b

information required to verify military service, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.7.b

updating multiple periods of active military service, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.7.c

active military service by reason of award of SC, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 6.A.2.i-k, and

updating military service in- BIRLS, see the Share User’s Guide, and- Participant Profile, see the Participant Profile User’s Guide.

b. Information Required to Verify Military Service

To properly verify active military service, the following information must be available:

entered on date (EOD) date of release from active duty (RAD) branch of service character of service, and separation reason.

Notes:Once all information necessary to verify service is obtained, users should indicate that service is verified byentering Y in the VERIFIED field, if using BIRLS, andchecking the SERVICE VERIFIED box in Participant Profile.When available, include the claimant's service number when entering service information in VA claims systems.

References: For more information on verifying military service in

- BIRLS, see the Share User’s Guide, and- Participant Profile, see the Participant Profile User’s Guide, and

updating multiple periods of active duty military service, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.7.c, and

handling cases involving a former service member with an uncharacterized separation from service, see M21-1, part III, Subpart v, 1.B.5.l.

c. Updating Multiple Periods of Active Military Service

Use the table below to determine which system(s) to use when updating multiple periods of active military service.

If the Veteran has… Then ...up to three periods of active military service

enter all periods of active military service in BIRLS.

more than three periods of active military service

enter three periods of active military service in BIRLS, and

enter any remaining periods of active military service in Participant Profile.

Important: Service information entered into Participant Profile will only update the Veteran’s corporate record. Changes made in Participant Profile will not automatically update the information shown in BIRLS. Users should check both systems to ensure the Veteran’s military service is complete.

Reference: For more information on updating military service in

BIRLS, see the Share User’s Guide, and Participant Profile, see the Participant Profile User’s Guide.

d. Updating VA Systems for Active Service Based on a Single Day of ADT or IADT

When SC for disability or death has been established based on a single day of ADT or IADT, the authorization activity will update BIRLS and Participant Profile to reflect that the period of service identified by the Rating Veterans Service Representative (RVSR) is active service.

Note: The corporate record will not allow entry of the same date as both EOD and RAD. The RVSR will utilize the day following as the end date of service but clearly annotate VA Form 21-6789, Deferred Rating Decision, (as directed in M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 6.A.2.k) to reflect that the service was actually only one single day of service.

Reference: For more information on RVSR documentation of the period of ADT/IADT upon which a grant of SC is based, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 6.A.2.

e. Updating VA Systems for Active Service Based on Multiple Periods of ADT or IADT

In circumstances where a claimed disability or death arises as a result of injuries, diseases, or covered conditions incurred in or aggravated during multiple periods of ADT or IADT, only the specific periods of ADT or IADT are considered active service.

Example: SC is warranted for hearing loss based on noise exposure sustained during a claimant’s 20 year career in the Reserves. The entire 20 year span is not considered active service. Rather, only the individual periods of ADT and or IADT during which the noise exposure (which is the conceded in-service injury in these situations) occurred are considered active service.

For certain situations, such as claims for hearing loss granted based on multiple periods of ADT or IADT, VA systems may not have the capacity to accept entry of all individual periods of service. Additionally, if the injury, such as acoustic trauma, is being conceded based on the entire span of the ADT and IADT, specific verification of each period of ADT or IADT is not necessary unless

a subsequent claim for SC based on a specific period of service is received, and

verification of the period of service is necessary to decide the claim, as discussed in M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 6.A.2.dk.

When multiple periods of ADT or IADT are utilized to establish SC for a disability or death, the

RVSR will annotate the rating decisions to reflect the timespan of the periods of ADT and IADT upon which the grant of SC for disability or death is based, and

authorization activity will update only the initial period of ADT (normally, the period of initial military training) as active service in VA systems.

Exception: If the periods of service are concurrent with the receipt of VA benefits and the Veteran’s eligibility to benefits is impacted, then all periods impacting payment of benefits must be verified and entered into appropriate VA systems.

References: For more information on updating periods of active service in appropriate VA systems, see M21-1,

Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.7.a and c, and adjudicating claims for SC for hearing loss and/or tinnitus associated with

ADT or IADT service, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart iv, 4.B.4.f.

f. Updating VA Systems for Claims When ADT or IADT Is the Only Service

When a Veteran with only ADT and/or IADT service submits a claim for compensation, enter the period(s) of ADT and/or IADT upon which the claim is based as verified service in Participant Profile.

In the BRANCH field, enter the actual branch of service such as Army Reserve or Air National Guard.

If the separation reason is not known or not indicated on the record of service, enter Unknown.

If the character of service is not known or not indicated in the record of service and the- evidence indicates the separation was an administrative separation, then

follow the procedures at M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 1.B.5.l to determine the appropriate character of service entry, or

- separation was not an administrative separation, then enter Unknown in the CHARACTER field.

Choose the appropriate type of service in the SERVICE TYPE field.

Important: Enter the first period of ADT if the claimant does not specify the period of

service upon which the claim is based. Do not enter a period of ADT or IADT into BIRLS as a period of verified

active service. These procedures apply only for claims in which there is no period of active

service verifiable. If VA grants any of the claimed issues, change the ADT and/or IADT to

active service after the rating decision is complete, as discussed in M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.7.a and d.

g. Updating VA Systems For Active Service Based on Multiple Title 10

Veterans may be activated multiple times under 10.U.S.C for periods of seven days or less during their career. VA systems may not have the capacity to accept entry of all individual periods of service.

Claims processors are only required to enter the latest period of service that is

Activations of Seven Days or Less

seven days or less unless SC is granted based on

multiple periods of Title 10 service, or a single period of Title 10 service in which the injury or death occurred.

When multiple periods of Title 10 service are utilized to establish SC for a disability or death,

the RVSR will annotate the rating decisions to reflect the timespan of the periods of Title 10 service upon which the grant of SC for disability or death is based, and

the authorization activity will update only the initial period of Title 10 service (normally, the period of initial military training) as active service in VA systems.

Reference: For more information on updating periods of active service in appropriate VA systems, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart ii, 3.C.7.a and c.