Benefits for spina bifida linked to Agent Orange

Spina bifida is a spinal cord birth defect that can be caused by a parent’s past contact with Agent Orange. If you’re the child of a Veteran who served in Vietnam, Thailand, or in or near

the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and you have spina bifida, you may be able to get VA benefits. Find out if you’re eligible and how to apply.

You may be eligible for compensation (payments), health care, and job training benefits if you meet these requirements.

Note: Your parent’s character of discharge and length of service don’t affect your eligibility for benefits related to spina bifida.

Note: You can only use your VR&E benefits between ages 14 and 31. 

You’ll need to fill out an Application for Benefits for Certain Children with Disabilities Born of Vietnam and Certain Korea Service Veterans (VA Form 21-0304).

You can apply by mail, in person, or with the help of a trained professional.

Mail your completed form and supporting evidence to this address:

Department of Veterans AffairsClaims Intake CenterPO Box 4444Janesville, WI 53547-4444

Or you can fax them to . If you’re outside the U.S., fax them to 1-. 

Bring your completed form and supporting evidence to a VA regional office near you.

You can work with a trained professional called an accredited representative to get help applying for benefits.

If you already have an accredited representative or a power of attorney and you need to update their information, call us at (TTY: 711). We’re here Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00

p.m. ET.

Call us at (TTY: 711). We’re here Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET. 

Call us at (TTY: 711). We’re here Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. ET.

You can also contact us online through Ask VA.Contact us online through Ask VA