What is substitution after a veteran dies?

Details

• Substitution applies only to claims or appeals that had not been finally decided before the veteran died.
• Once substituted, the survivor may, depending on the facts, be able to submit additional evidence — unlike an accrued-benefits claim, which is limited to the existing file.
• Eligible substitutes are generally the same categories of people who could receive accrued benefits, such as a surviving spouse, child, or dependent parent.
• If no claim was pending at death, substitution is not available; accrued benefits or a new DIC claim may still be options.
• VA determines whether substitution applies based on the specific procedural posture of the veteran's claim at death.