← VA Benefits / Dependent Hierarchy
Who Counts as a Dependent
Each plan covers your VA plus a set number of family members. Those members are enrolled in a set order, based on your VA's family situation. Here's exactly how it works.
Single Members
FirstYour parents
SecondYour siblings (oldest to youngest)
Parents must:
- Not be older than 65 years old
- Not be employed or earning an income
Siblings must:
- Be at least 15 days old
- Not be more than 21 years old
- Be unmarried
- Not be employed or earning an income
- Be fully dependent on the member for support
Single-Parent Members
FirstYour children (oldest to youngest)
SecondYour parents
Children must:
- Be at least 15 days old
- Not be more than 21 years old
- Be unmarried
- Not be employed or earning an income
- Be fully dependent on the member for support
Parents must:
- Not be older than 65 years old
- Not be employed or earning an income
Married Members
FirstYour legal spouse
SecondYour children (oldest to youngest)
Legal spouse must:
- Not be older than 65 years old
Children must:
- Be at least 15 days old
- Not be more than 21 years old
- Be unmarried
- Not be employed or earning an income
- Be fully dependent on the member for support
Skipping a Dependent in the Order
If someone higher in the order can't be enrolled, that can be documented so the next eligible dependent takes their place. Accepted documentation:
Deceased dependentDeath certificate
Dependent abroadProof of visa or employment certificate / contract
Already has HMOCertificate of coverage with validity dates
Separated spousesAffidavit of separation (married members)