**Rescinded per M21-1, Part II, Change 17, dated 8/23/95**

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 1**

**Washington, DC 20420 June 3, 1992**

1\. Transmitted is Part II, chapter 7, change , \"Appeal Tracking System
(ATS)\", to Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1,
\"Adjudication Procedures - Compensation and Pension, Dependency and
Indemnity Compensation, Accrued Amounts, Burial Allowances, Special
Benefits.\" This replaces chapter 7 in its entirety.

2\. Instructions: Remove Part II, chapter 7, dated July 2, 1990, and
replace it with the attached revised chapter 7.

3\. Instructions in this chapter reflect changes to the ATS effective
June 8, 1992.

4\. Instructions for the processing of vocational rehabilitation and
counseling appeals are also incorporated in this chapter. This chapter
will be changed to remove reference to vocational rehabilitation and
counseling appeals when separate instructions are published by the
Vocational Rehabilitation and Counseling Service.

5\. **RESCISSIONS**: Circular 20-92-7

By Direction of the Chief Benefits Director

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus VBC, 1 each

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 2**

**Washington, DC 20420 September 10, 1992**

1\. Transmitted is Part II, change 2, chapters 3 and 4, Contents page
and Index, to Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1,
\"Adjudication Procedures - Compensation and Pension, Dependency and
Indemnity Compensation, Accrued Amounts, Burial Allowances, Special
Benefits.\" This replaces the Contents page, the Index and chapters 3
and 4 in their entirety.

2\. Instructions: Remove Part II, page v, chapters 3 and 4 and pages I-1
and I-2, all dated July 2, 1990, and replace them with the attached
revised page V, chapters 3 and 4 and pages II-1 and II-2.

3\. The changes reflect additional instructions for files and folder
control of potential Court of Veterans Appeals Review cases. The manual
has been updated to incorporate the use of microfiche copies of file
letters in certain designated mailings.

4\. The manual has been changed to make the preparation of VA Form 3025,
File Charge Card, optional when a request is made to transfer a folder
in. The station now has the option of preparing the charge card when the
folder is received by the requesting station.

5\. **RESCISSIONS**: Circulars 20-89-28, Revised, with change 1;
Circular 21-92-2.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus VBC, 1 each

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 3**

**Washington, DC 20420 February 16, l993**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual, M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 2-i and 2-1 through 2-9**. Remove these pages and substitute
pages 2-i and 2-I-1 through 2-III-3 attached.

Chapter 2 has been reorganized to separate subchapters and renumber
pages.

Paragraph 2.03c is amended to update procedures for establishing DEA
folders.

Paragraph 2.07j is amended to allow the working of dual beneficiary
claims in certain cases without the need for pulling all claim files.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus VBC, 1 each

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Rescinded per M21-1, Part II, Change 17, dated 8/23/95**

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 4**

**Washington, DC 20420 February 19, 1993**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Adjudication Procedures -
Compensation and Pension, Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, Accrued
Amounts, Burial Allowance, Special Benefits, part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Page 7-i**: Remove this page and insert page 7-i attached.

**Pages 7-II-1 and 7-II-2**: Remove these pages and insert pages 7-II-1
through 7-II-3 attached.

**Pages 7-III-1 through 7-III-6**: Remove these pages and insert pages
7-III-1 through 7-III-6 attached.

**Page 7-IV-1**: Remove this page and insert page 7-IV-1 attached.

Chapter 7 is changed in several sections to more clearly define
procedures to follow for education, VR&C and medical appeals. References
to automatic generation of EP 120 are changed to EP 070. Work rate
standards for EP 070 will be published in a change to M21-4. There are
no timeliness standards for EP 070 and 172. In those instances where end
product credit is automatically generated additional end product credit
is not to be manually cleared (PCLR).

Paragraph 7.04 specifies the procedure to be followed if a medical
appellant has no VA claim number. The responsibilities of the medical
facilities and the adjudication division are clarified regarding medical
NODs.

Paragraph 7.05 is changed to remove all references to an automatically
generated EP 120. EP 120 has been replaced by 070. EP 120 will be used
for award actions resulting from an RO total grant of benefits.

EP 070 and 172 will generate one to two-day timeliness. The timeliness
goal for release of a statement of the case (code 05) remains the same
while goals for the release of a SSOC (code 42) and certification to BVA
(codes 30 and 43) are being developed.

Paragraph 7.05e references to a message display which is not operational
are deleted. Procedures for use of EP 120 are shown.

Paragraph 7.07b is changed to require preceding zeroes if the Loan
Guaranty number has less than 12 digits.

Paragraph 7.07g(3) is changed to give additional statistical information
and clarification regarding WIPP screens.

Paragraph 7.07g(2)(b) NOTE added to clarify that the procedure is only
for VR&C appeals. EP 690, not EP 120, will be one-time PCLRd.

Paragraph 7.07g(2)(d) shows that after a code 85 is entered, code 50
must not be used.

Paragraph 7.07g(3)(b) is modified because EP 070 will not be
automatically generated when code 40 is entered.

Paragraph 7.07g(3)(f) is changed to clarify procedures required when an
appeal is granted by the RO.

Paragraph 7.07g(3)(f)(5) is deleted.

Paragraph 7.07i clarifies the use of EP 690, EP 120, for VR&C appeals
updated by Adjudication personnel.

Paragraph 7.09 is changed to clarify procedures taken when a notice of
death is received. (Programming correction pending.)

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus VBC, 1 each

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Rescinded per M21-1, Part II, Change 17, dated 8/23/95**

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 5**

**Washington, DC 20420 March 25, 1993**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 4-i and pages 4-II-7 through 4-II-13**. Remove these pages and
substitute pages 4-i and 4-II-7 through 4-II-14 attached.

Paragraph 4.13 has been amended to add instructions for following up
claims files on temporary transfer to the Medical Followup Agency of the
National Research Council. Paragraph 4.14 has been changed to
incorporate procedures involving material received on claims that are on
temporary transfer to the Board of Veterans\' Appeals.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus VBC, 1 each

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 6**

**Washington, DC 20420 April 19, 1993**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual, M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 2-i and 2-III-1 through 2-III-3**. Remove these pages and
substitute pages 2-i and 2-III-1 through 2-III-3 attached.

Paragraph 2.08a has been revised to require that duplicate material
submitted by the claimant be returned to him or her by a cover letter.
It also has been amended to add a reference to M21-1, part IV, paragraph
3.09.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus VBC, 1 each

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Rescinded per M21-1, Part II, Change 17, dated 8/23/95**

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 7**

**Washington, DC 20420 April 19, 1993**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 5-i through 5-20 and 6-i through 6-41**. Remove these pages and
substitute pages 5-i through 5-VII-4 and 6-i through 6-B-8 attached.
Chapters 5 and 6 are broken down into subchapters and are repaginated.

Paragraph 5.13f is changed to show that when the Records Processing
Center (RPC) receives a Report of Casualty (DD 1300) it will send the DD
1300 to the regional office of jurisdiction if the veteran has a BIRLS
record. Otherwise, it will send the DD 1300 to the regional office
nearest the next of kin. The FNOD is to be processed by the regional
office rather than the RPC.

Paragraph 5.18h is changed to emphasize that E mail\--not the Benefits
Delivery Network\--should be used to recall a folder from the RPC if the
folder has been moved to the NOD File Bank.

Paragraph 5.20 is changed to show new criteria for when a print of the
VID screen can be used as acceptable proof of service.

Paragraph 5.24f is changed to show that regional offices may send
requests for multiple Presidential Memorial Certificates (PMC\'s) for
the same addressee to VACO (403C) for processing.

Paragraph 5.25e is changed to emphasize the importance of entering
correct information on the PMCS screen. If the PMC is addressed to a
foreign country, the name of the country should be written out in the
address segment.

Paragraph 6.03d(8) is changed to show that Notice of Death BPRT messages
are no longer printed at regional offices.

Paragraph 6.05d(18) is changed to furnish a description of the ARNG
(Army National Guard) and ANG (Air National Guard) branch of service
codes.

Paragraph 6.05d(25) is changed to describe the function of the VADS
Unit.

Paragraph 6.05e is changed to show new criteria for when a print of the
VID screen can be used as acceptable proof of service.

Paragraph 6.05i is changed to show SMR as a folder type which appears on
the LOC screen.

Paragraph 6.05j is changed to show that the BICP command cannot be used
to add diagnostic codes to an ICP segment which does not already contain
diagnostic code data. To accomplish this, regional offices must contact
VACO (213C).

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus VBC, 1 each

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 8**

**Washington, DC 20420 May 15, 1993**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, part II, \"Authorization
and Clerical Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

Chapter 3: Remove pages 3-I-1 through 3-I-4 and substitute pages 3-I-1
through 3-I-4 attached.

Paragraph 3.05i is added to clarify that a service organization
representative holding a valid power of attorney has access to section
7332 records in the claims folder unless the veteran denies such access
in writing and the denial statement is filed in the veteran\'s folder.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus VBC, 1 each

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Rescinded per M21-1, Part II, Change 17, dated 8/23/95**

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 9**

**Washington, DC 20420 July 6, 1993**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 4-II-9 through 4-II-14**. Remove these pages and substitute
pages 4-II-9 through 4-II-14 attached.

Paragraph 4.14 has been changed to ensure new claims received while
claims folders are at the BVA, or General Counsel pursuant to a notice
of appeal filed with the Court, are processed promptly in compliance
with the Court\'s decisions in [Ebert v. Brown]{.underline}, US. Vet.
App. 92-1402 (1993), and [Genous v. Brown]{.underline}, US. Vet. App.
91-1433 (1993).

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus 2 each to Veterans Services Division (27)

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Rescinded per M21-1, Part II, Change 17, dated 8/23/95**

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 10**

**Washington, DC 20420 August 5, 1993**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 1-i through 1-15**. Remove these pages and substitute pages 1-i
through 1-II-3 attached.

Chapter 1 has been reorganized to separate subchapters and renumber
pages.

Paragraph 1.04 is amended to update the description of CEST command and
remove PEST command information.

Paragraph 1.05 is updated to provide current information on CEST
processing following installation of the CEST redesign programming.

Paragraph 1.05a(3) is amended to clarify the use of end product code
third-digit modifier \"9.\"

Paragraph 1.06 is amended to show correction to the selection of control
dates, add diary reason codes 02, 24, 25, 27, 32, 34 and 41 and correct
the maximum control limit for diary reason codes 03, 10, 21 and 30.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 Plus VBC, 1 each

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Rescinded per M21-1, Part II, Change 22, dated 5/23/96**

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 11**

**Washington, DC 20420 October 8, 1993**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 4-i, 4-I-1 through 4-I-6 and 4-II-1 through 4-II-14**: Remove
these pages and substitute pages 4-i, 4-I-1 through 4-I-6 and 4-II-1
through 4-II-14 attached.

Effective October 1, 1993, the White River Junction regional office
assumed claims jurisdiction for claimants residing in Canada. The
chapter is amended to show the new regional office of jurisdiction.

Paragraph 4.13d is changed to suggest that control for the initial
followup on claims folders on temporary transfer to the BVA be
established for 14 months. The backlog of cases currently at the BVA is
averaging 13 months.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus 6 copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 12**

**Washington, DC 20420 March 7, 1994**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

Chapter 3: Remove page 3-III-1 and substitute page 3-III-1 attached.

Paragraphs 3.10 and 3.11 are changed to add a cross reference to Part
III, chapter 12 for private attorney access to folders.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus 6 copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Rescinded per M21-1, Part II, Change 17, dated 8/23/95**

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 13**

**Washington, DC 20420 June 6, 1994**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 7-i and 7-I-1 through 7-IV-1**. Remove these pages and insert
the attached pages 7-i and 7-I-1 through 7-IV-2. Chapter 7 has been
revised in its entirety to include the procedures for advance docketing.

**Pages 7-A-3 through 7-A-6**: Remove these pages and insert the
attached pages 7-A-3 through 7-A-6. This changes the title of the fourth
column from \"BENE\"to \"SUSP\" in Addenda D and F.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus 6 copies for each Veterans Service Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Rescinded per M21-1, Part II, Change 22, dated 5/23/96**

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 14**

**Washington, DC 20420 June 13, 1994**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 4-II-9 through 4-II-10:** Remove these pages and substitute
pages 4-II-9 through 4-II-10 attached.

Paragraph 4.14a is reworded for clarification. Only material which
[must]{.underline} be associated with the claims file
[while]{.underline} on temporary transfer will be sent to the station
having temporary custody of the folder.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus 6 copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 15**

**Washington, DC 20420 February 22, 1995**

Transmitted is a change to Part II, \"Clerical Procedures,\" of Veterans
Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, \"Adjudication Procedures -
Compensation and Pension, Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, Accrued
Amounts, Burial Allowance, Special Benefits.\"

**Pages 1-i through 1-II-3**: Remove these pages and substitute pages
1-i through 1-II-2 attached.

**Pages 5-i through 5-VII-4**: Remove these pages and substitute pages
5-i through 5-VII-4 attached.

**Pages 6-i through 6-B-8**: Remove these pages and substitute pages 6-i
through 6-B-8 attached.

Paragraph 1.05a(2) is revised to include White River Junction among
those regional offices which process foreign claims, and clarify the use
of the third digit modifier of end products.

Paragraph 1.05c is revised, moving future diary control codes to Part V,
Chapter 16.

Paragraph 5.05 is added to include that NODs received through BIRLS
MESSAGES are considered acceptable evidence of death. Therefore,
contemporaneous notice is appropriate under 38 CFR 3.211(b).

Paragraph 5.06g(5) is revised to include that NODs received through
BIRLS MESSAGES are considered acceptable evidence of death.

Paragraph 5.13f is revised because NODs received through BIRLS MESSAGES
need not always have a lightweight folder established.

Paragraph 5.16b is revised to include the coding for BIRLS in the NO
CLAIMS FOLDER EST RSN field if no claims folder exists, and an NOD is
received through BIRLS MESSAGES.

Paragraph 6.03d(8) is revised to explain the processing of NODs received
through BIRLS MESSAGES.

Paragraph 6.05d(25) is revised to include that the \"D\" indicator in
the VADS field indicates that the service data in BIRLS came from
Defense Manpower Data Center processing.

Paragraph 6.05i(2)(g).is revised to include the BIRLS codes for SMRTS.

This change is prepared in Word format in order to coincide with ARMS
format.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus 6 copies for each Veterans Service Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Rescinded per M21-1, Part II, Change 19, dated 2/14/96**

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 16**

**Washington, DC 20420 March 6, 1995**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 7-i, and 7-I-1 through 7-A-6**. Remove these pages and insert
the attached pages 7-i, 7-I-1 through 7-A-6.

Several paragraphs of chapter 7 have been rephrased to provide a clearer
statement of the coding changes resulting from the advance docketing
procedures and expand the use of the one-time PCLR of EP 070. As of
January 3,1995, all regional offices will take a one-time PCLR 070 for
appeals precertified (code 41) to BVA until the BDN system modification
starts to automatically generate EP 070 upon coding 41 in the ATS. In
addition, because of the recent enactment of Public Law 103-446, all BVA
remanded appeals will remain in code status 51 until they are
transferred back to BVA (code 30). Since remanded appeals already have
an assigned docket number, precertification procedures do not apply to
them. For appeals in remanded status, take a one-time PCLR of EP 070 for
each supplemental statement-of-the-case issued.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus 6 copies for each Veterans Service Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Rescinded per M21-1, Part II, Change 20, dated 4/3/96**

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 17**

**Washington, DC 20420 August 23, 1995**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, part II, \"Clerical
Procedures\" is changed as follows.

**Pages 6-B-3 and 6-B-4**: Remove these pages and insert pages 6-B-3
through 6-B-4 attached.

The National Association of County Veterans Service Officers, Inc., Mark
R. Caldwell, and Kenneth M. Carpenter, are added to the list of Power of
Attorney Codes.

**UNRELATED RESCISSIONS**: M21-1, part II, changes 1, 4, 5, 7, 9, 10,
and 13 and all Erratums thereto.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus 6 copies for each Veterans Service Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Rescinded per M21-1, Part II, Change 21, dated 5/7/96**

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 18**

**Washington, DC 20420 November 9, 1995**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

Chapter 5: Remove page 5-VII-1 through 5-VII-4, and substitute pages
5-VII-1 through 5-VII-4.

Subparagraph 5.30 is revised to require that applications for death
benefits, VA Forms 21-534 and 21-535, be sent to dependents if they are
of record in the claims folder.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus six copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 19**

**Washington, DC 20420 February 14, 1996**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 7-i and 7-I-1 through 7-A-6**. Remove these pages and insert the
attached pages 7-i and 7-I-1 through 7-A-6.

The entire chapter has been revised to include numerous system and
processing changes implemented over the past 6 months. These include the
following: placing appeals in code 41 status on the W80 screen,
automatic generation of EP 070 for appeal records updated to code 41,
revision of appeal reports, revision of the pre-certification procedure,
addition of a hearing indicator, code 90, on the NDT screen, generation
of a monthly data file (tape) to BVA, revision of code 51 use for
remanded appeals, and notification to BVA when appeal records are
permanently transferred-out.

**RESCISSIONS**: M21-1, part II, change 16; Compensation and Pension
Service All-Station Letter 5-15, dated February 16, 1995.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus 6 copies for each Veterans Service Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 20**

**Washington, DC 20420 April 3, 1996**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 6-i through 6-iv and 6-II-1 through 6-II-10**: Remove these
pages and insert pages 6-i through 6-iv and 6-II-1 through 6-II-10
attached.

Paragraph 6.05d(27) is added to explain the new Persian Gulf in-theater
information on the VID screen.

Paragraph 6.05h(18) is added to explain the Persian Gulf indicator on
the MSC screen.

**Pages 6-A-1 and 6-A-2**: Remove these pages and insert pages 6-A-1 and
6-A-2 attached.

**Pages 6-B-3 and 6-B-4**: Remove these pages and insert pages 6-B-3 and
6-B-4 attached.

The VID screen includes the new Persian Gulf in-theater dates and the
total days in-theater as received from the Defense Manpower Data Center.
These fields are currently not correctable.

These pages are revised to include the National Association of County
Veterans Services Offices, Inc., and Stephen L DeVita with their power
of attorney code.

**RESCISSION:** M21-1, part II, change 17 and all Erratums thereto.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus 6 copies for each Veterans Service Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 21**

**Washington, DC 20420 May 7, 1996**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, part II, \"Authorization
and Clerical Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 5-i and 5-I-1 through 5-VII-4:** Remove these pages and insert
pages 5-i and 5-I-1 through

5-VII-4 attached.

Paragraph 5.01b(4) is updated to reflect the transfer of education
folders to the Regional Processing Offices.

A note is added to paragraph 5.21a to emphasize that if the criteria
listed are met, the VID screen can be used as proof of service even
though there is not a \"Y\" in the VER field.

A reference is added as paragraph 5.37 to refer to part IV, paragraph
8.46, for procedures for appeals pending at death.

References to \"RPC\" (Records Processing Center) are changed to \"RMC\"
(Records Management Center) to reflect the recent reorganization of SMRC
and RPC. Note that ADP systems may still show \"RPC\" but will be
updated in the future.

References to \"Target\" are changed to \"BDN\" and other minor
editorial changes are made.

**RESCISSION:** M21-1, part II, change 18 and all erratums thereto.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus three copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 22**

**Washington, DC 20420 May 23, 1996**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 4-i and 4-I-1 through 4-II-14:** Remove these pages and insert
pages 4-i and 4-I-1 through 4-II-13 attached..

Subparagraph (7) is added to 4.01a and subparagraph (4) to 4.02a giving
a cross reference for PGW cases.

Paragraph 4.03 is updated for education folders.

Paragraph 4.11 is updated to show the Pittsfield FRC.

A note about COVERS (Control of Veterans Records System) is added after
paragraphs 4.10, 4.11 and 4.13. COVERS takes over the permanent transfer
functions from BIRLS for claims and NOD folders.

Minor editorial changes are made.

The entire chapter is reprinted for the ARMS format.

**RESCISSIONS:** M21-1, part II, changes 11 and 14 and all erratums
thereto.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

J. Gary Hickman, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus three copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 23**

**Washington, DC 20420 July 2, 1996**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 5-i through 5-ii and 5-VII-1 through 5-VII-4:** Remove these
pages and insert pages 5-i through 5-ii and 5-VII-1 through 5-VII-4
attached.

The mailbox address of the BIRLS Adjustment Unit has been changed in
subparagraphs 5.27c and d.

A note has been added to paragraph 5.30a to incorporate decisions in *De
Landicho v. Brown* and *Oseo v. Brown,* 7 Vet. App. 42 (1994), holding
that issues on appeal to the Court of Veterans Appeals at the date of
any claimant's death are in a pending status and accrued benefit
applications must be sent.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Jack Ross, Acting Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus three copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 24**

**Washington, DC 20420 August 12, 1996**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 6-B-3 through 6-B-8:** Remove these pages and insert pages 6-B-3
through 6-B-8 attached.

Power of Attorney codes have been updated to correct names and to
include recently approved representatives.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Jack Ross, Acting Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068 plus three copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 25**

**Washington, DC 20420 November 27, 1996**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 1-i through 1-II-2**: Remove these pages and substitute pages
1-i through 1-II-2 attached.

Paragraph 1.09d(1)(b) is revised to reflect the changed storage
organization at the Records Management Center (RMC).

Minor editorial changes have been made.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Kristine A. Moffitt, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2168 plus three copies for each Veterans Service
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2168)

**Rescinded per M21-1, Part II, Change 33, dated 6/23/98**

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 26**

**Washington, DC 20420 September 12, 1997**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 1-I-1 through 1-I-4**: Remove these pages and substitute pages
1-I-1 through 1-I-4 attached.

Paragraph 1.02 is amended to show that for claims establishment
purposes, VA should use the earliest date a claim was actually received
by a VA facility (e.g., a VA medical center or another regional office
if the claim was first received there before being forwarded to the
regional office establishing the pending issue).

Paragraph 1.06b(2) is amended to remove Diary Reason Code 34, \"Review
for return of VA Form 21-4140, Employment Questionnaire.\" In lieu of
this form, veterans receiving compensation based on individual
unemployability will receive a letter each year reminding them of their
responsibility to notify VA immediately if they resume working.

By Direction of the Acting Under Secretary for Benefits

Kristine A. Moffitt, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068 plus 3 copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 27**

**Washington, DC 20420 September 18, 1997**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 5-IV-1 through 5-IV-3**: Remove these pages and substitute pages
5-IV-1 through 5-IV-2 attached.

Paragraph 5.19b is amended to show that when an FNOD (First Notice of
Death) is processed and a disability rating is of record, personnel at
the Records Management Center (RMC) will update the BIRLS ICP screen
with the rating data.

Paragraph 5.19c is removed and paragraphs 5.19d through i are
redesignated paragraphs c through h. Previously, RMC automatically
forwarded claims folders to the regional office of jurisdiction if an
FNOD was processed and the claims folder contained a rating granting
service connection for a cardiovascular condition, a genitourinary
condition, a chronic disease, or a combined evaluation of 10 percent or
more. Under the new procedure, the claims folder is transferred only if
requested by the regional office. This change was recommended by the RMC
based on a study which found that in more than 90 percent of the cases
where folders were transferred to regional offices under the former
procedure, no death benefits claim was filed within 90 days of the
veteran's death.

Paragraph 5.20b is amended to furnish instructions for using COVERS to
request transfer of a claims folder and to provide the new name of the
mailbox used for requesting recall of a claims folder.

By Direction of the Acting Under Secretary for Benefits

Kristine A. Moffitt, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068 plus 3 copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 28**

**Washington, DC 20420 September 23, 1997**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 6-iii through 6-iv and 6-B-1 through 6-B-10**: Remove these
pages and substitute pages 6-iii through 6-iv and 6-B-1 through 6-B-10
attached.

Exhibit B.2 is revised to show Branch of Service Codes for groups
recognized under section 401 of Public Law 95-202. See 38 CFR 3.7(x).

By Direction of the Acting Under Secretary for Benefits

Kristine A. Moffitt, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068 plus 3 copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 29**

**Washington, DC 20420 September 18, 1997**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 4i through 4-I-5**: Remove these pages and substitute pages 4i
through 4-I-5 attached.

Paragraph 4.02e(4) is added to show that the Manila regional office has
permanent jurisdiction of cases involving Minimum Income Widow (MIW)
payments to beneficiaries residing in the Philippines.

Paragraph 4.02f is added to show that the Denver regional office has
permanent jurisdiction of cases involving Minimum Income Widow (MIW)
payments to beneficiaries residing anywhere other than in the
Philippines.

By Direction of the Acting Under Secretary for Benefits

Kristine A. Moffitt, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068 plus 3 copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 30**

**Washington, DC 20420 June 23, 1998**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 3-i through 3-ii**: Remove these pages and substitute pages 3-i
through 3-ii attached.

**Pages 3-IX-1 through 3-IX-2**: Remove these pages and substitute pages
3-IX-1 through 3-IX-3 attached.

Paragraph 3.25b is amended to provide that Board of Veterans\' Appeals
(BVA) evidence tabs should not be removed from the claims folder until
the 150-day control period after the BVA decision has expired.

Paragraph 3.26 is added to provide procedures for handling claims
folders which have been returned to regional offices by General Counsel
Professional Staff Group VII (PSG VII) after the Record on Appeal (ROA)
process has been completed at the Court of Veterans Appeals. Prior to
June 1, 1997, General Counsel retained control of the claims file until
a final determination concerning the appellate issue had been made by
the Court. Effective June 1, 1997, General Counsel began returning
claims folders to regional offices when the Record on Appeal process had
been completed at the Court.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Robert J. Epley, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068 plus 3 copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

**Local Reproduction Authorized**

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 31**

**Washington, DC 20420 April 13, 1998**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 6-B-5 through 6-B-6**: Remove these pages and substitute pages
6-B-5 through 6-B-6 attached.

Exhibit B.5 is revised to add The Veterans Assistance Foundation, Inc.
which was recognized on December 22, 1997, for purposes of representing
claimants before the Department of Veterans Affairs.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Kristine A. Moffitt, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068 plus 3 copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 32**

**Washington, DC 20420 May 18, 1998**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 4-i through 4-I-6**: Remove these pages and substitute pages 4-i
through 4-I-5 attached.

Jurisdiction for claims folders of veterans residing in the countries of
South America, Central America and the Caribbean are transferred from
the Washington Regional Office to the Houston Regional Office. Reference
to Gulf War cases was deleted as no longer relevant in this context.

References to claims for education benefits have been updated.

**Pages 4-II-1 through 4-II-6.** Remove these pages and substitute page
4-II-1 through 4-II-6 attached.

Jurisdiction of the Houston Regional Office has been updated. Reference
in paragraph 4.05 to the official responsible for permanent transfer of
principal guardianship folders has been changed to the Service Center
Manager.

Obsolete reference to the JOB training folder deleted.

Reference in paragraph 4.10e is updated to the Service Center Manager.

**Pages 4-II-9 through 4-II-10.** Remove these pages and substitute
pages 4-II-9 through 4-II-10 attached.

Routing symbol in paragraph 4.15e updated. An obsolete reference in
paragraph 4.15f to the Veterans Services Program Staff has been deleted.

**RESCISSION**: M21-1, part II, change 29.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Robert J. Epley, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068 plus 3 copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

**LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED**

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 33**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 June 23, 1998**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 1-I-1 through 1-I-4**: Remove these pages and substitute pages
1-I-1 through 1-I-4 attached.

Paragraph 1.05a(3) is amended to show that the third-digit modifier 8
shall be used to identify personal trauma cases.

**RESCISSION**: M21-1, Part II, change 26 dated September 12, 1997.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Robert J. Epley, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068 plus 6 copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

**Local Reproduction Authorized**

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 33**

**Washington, D.C. 20420** **October 5 , 1998**

**ERRATUM**

M21-1, Part II, Change 33, dated June 23, 1998, is corrected as follows:

[**Pages 1-I-1 and 1-I-2**:]{.underline} Remove these pages and
substitute pages 1-I-1 and 1-I-2 attached.

Paragraph 1.02 erroneously excluded the provision that the VA should use
the earliest date a claim was actually received by a VA facility which
M21-1, Part II, change 26, dated September 12, 1997, added to the
paragraph.

Distribution: RPC: 2068 plus 3 copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 34**

**Washington, DC 20420 September 23, 1998**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual, M21-1, Part II, "Clerical
Procedures" is changed as follows:

**Pages 7-I-i thru 7-IV-2:** Remove these pages and substitute 7-I-i
thru 7-IV-2 attached.

This chapter has been revised in part to reflect changes described in FL
98-61 pertaining to discontinuation of pre-certification of appeals.
Several paragraphs of Chapter 7 have been amended to suspend the use of
Code 41 (pre-certification of appeal) in the Appeal Tracking System. If
an appeal case is complete in its entirety and ready for BVA review,
certify the case by completing VA Form 8, enter Code 30 into ATS, update
VACOLS to show transfer to BVA, then transfer the claims folder to BVA.
References to Code 41 are retained only for historical information. As
soon as practicable, ATS will be reprogrammed to preclude entry of Code
41 during the period its use is suspended.

Subparagraph 7.04d. is revised to delete requirement to forward a
photocopy of VA Form 9 to BVA for advance docketing purposes. This is
now accomplished electronically via input of Form 9 data directly in
VACOLS.

Subparagraph 7.08g(3)(d) is revised to re-institute use of Code 43

Subparagraphs 7.10c. and 7.11a. have been revised to reflect that VACOLS
must be updated upon death of claimant or transfer of claims folder to
another regional office. It is no longer required that BVA be notified
by E-mail or fax.

Code 85 has been re-titled as Post Pre-Certification Development. Cases
currently in Code 41 are to be entered in Code 85 if additional action
is necessary prior to transfer to BVA.

M21-1, Part IV, Chapter 8, will be amended separately to reflect the
changes to appeals processing affected by FL 98-61 and these changes to
M21-1, Part II, Chapter 7.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Robert J. Epley, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068 plus 3 copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 35**

**Washington, DC 20420 October 27 , 1998**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 3-i through 3-ii**: Remove these pages and substitute pages 3-i
through 3-ii attached.

The title for paragraph 3.14 has been changed to reflect new procedures.

**Pages 3-IV-1 through 3-IV-4**: Remove these pages and substitute pages
3-IV-1 through 3-IV-4 attached.

Paragraph 3.13 has been changed to provide that instead of a nationwide
search list provided by the Records Management Center, each regional
office will request a 24-hour search of a missing folder only of the one
or more stations where there is reason to believe the folder may be
located. The regional office in possession of the material for which the
folder is required will be responsible for preparing a "rebuilt" folder.

Paragraph 3.14 has been changed from a discussion of circularization
procedures to when and how to request a 24-hour search of missing
claims, XC, NOD, and DEA folders. The heading has also been changed to
reflect the new contents.

Paragraph 3.15 e (6) has been updated to reflect the current
configuration of stations which process education claims and the current
education manual reference.

> Various editorial changes have been made.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Robert J. Epley, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068 plus 3 copies for each Veterans Services
Division

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 36**

**Washington, DC 20420 November 5, 1999**

Veterans Benefits Manual M21-1, Part II, "Clerical Procedures," is
changed as follows:

**Page 4-i:** Remove this page and substitute page 4-i, attached.

Paragraph 4.19 is added to the table of contents page.

**Page 4-II-13:** Remove this page and substitute page 4-II-13,
attached.

Paragraph 4.19 is added to the chapter to provide steps to take when
transfer of cases involves claims following pre-discharge claims
processing.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Robert J. Epley, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 37**

**Washington, DC 20420 November 18, 1999**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual, M21-1, Part II, "Clerical
Procedures" is changed as follows:

Pages 7-I-i through 7-A-6. Remove these pages and substitute pages 7-i
through 7-IV-1 attached.

The entire chapter has been revised to remove all reference to the
Appeals Tracking System (ATS) and incorporate procedures for use of the
Veterans Appeals Control and Locator System (VACOLS).

**RESCISSIONS:** M21-1, Part II, Chapter 7, Changes 19 dated February
14, 1996 and 34, dated September 23, 1998.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Robert J. Epley, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC 2168

FD

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 38**

**Washington, DC 20420 February 2, 2001**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, "Clerical
Procedures," is changed as follows:

**Pages 6-i through 6-iv:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 6-i
through 6-iv, attached.

Page numbering for some of the codes in exhibit B is amended.

**Pages 6-B-1 through 6-B-10:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
6-B-1 through 6-B-12, attached.

Exhibit B.3 is amended to include codes for the Education folder (EDU)
and the Insurance folder (INS).

Additional names and codes of private attorney and agents are added to
exhibits B.5 and B.6. In addition, the service organization code 94
belongs to the National Veterans Organization of America, and that is
added to both exhibits.

Page numbering is also corrected in this section.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

John McCourt, Acting Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR

**LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED**

# Veterans Benefits Manual M21-1, Part II

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 39**

**Washington, DC 20420 April 2, 2001**

Veterans Benefits Manual M21-1, Part II, "Clerical Procedures," is
changed as follows:

**Pages 3-I-1 through 3-I-4:** Remove these pages and add pages 3-I-1
through 3-I-4, attached.

Paragraph 3.04a is amended to change the references from Adjudication
Officer to Veterans Service Center Manager. The statement that "*all VBA
employee claims folders must be maintained in locked files"* is added to
the paragraph.

Paragraph 3.04a(5) is added to provide that files for former employees,
relatives, and VSOs will parallel the policy for employee claims and be
transferred to the office of jurisdiction; However, folder will be held
in general files. Former employees will be maintained at the station of
jurisdiction for at least 3 years after the employee leaves VBA. They
must remain in locked files. The subsequent subparagraph is redesignated
from (5) to (6).

Paragraph 3.06a(1), (2), and (3) are amended to show use COVERS to
establish control and locate folders charged out of files storage.

Other minor editorial changes are made.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

John McCourt, Acting Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 40 Erratum**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 January 9, 2002**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Authorization
and Clerical Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 6-iii through 6-iv**: Remove these pages and substitute pages
6-iii through 6-iv, attached.

**Pages 6-B-5 through 6-B-12**: Remove these pages and substitute page
6-B-5 through 6-B-10, attached.

This appendix is amended to include eight new attorneys-at-law and the
National Veterans Organization of America, Inc. to the list of approved
powers of attorney.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Ronald J. Henke, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 40 Erratum**

**Washington, D.C. 20420 January 9, 2002**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, "Authorization
and Clerical Procedures," is changed as follows:

**Transmittal:** Remove and insert transmittal sheet attached.

Pages 6-B-9 through 6-B-12 should also be removed.

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

**LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED**

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 41**

**Washington, DC 20420 February 15, 2002**

Veterans Benefits Manual M21-1, Part II, "Clerical Procedures," is
changed as follows:

**Pages 3-i and 3-ii:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 3-i and
3-ii, attached.

**Pages 3-I-1 through 3-I-4:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
3-I-1 through 3-I-4, attached.

Paragraphs 3.02a. and 3.06a.(1) have been amended to address control and
security of claims folders stored

off-site, and the requirement for tracking these folders in COVERS.

Paragraph 3.04a is amended to clarify that locked files must be
maintained on-site in all circumstances.

Paragraph 3.06c requires regular updates in the COVERS tracking system.

**Page 3-IX-1 through 3-E-4**: Remove these pages and substitute pages
3-IX-1 through 3-E-4, attached.

Changes throughout this section have been made to replace "United States
Court of Veterans Appeals" with "United States Court of Appeals for
Veterans Claims" and "the Court" with "CAVC."

Paragraph 3.25c is amended to clarify that folders meeting criteria for
review by the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans\' Claims
(CAVC) must be maintained on-site in all circumstances.

> By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits
>
> Ronald J. Henke, Director
>
> Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 42 Erratum**

**Washington, DC 20420 April 3, 2002**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

This Erratum corrects pagination on page 3-I-2.

**Page 3-I-1 through 3-I-2:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
Page 3-I-1 through 3-I-2, attached.

Paragraph 3.04(a)(5)Note is amended to to show that the adjudication of
claims for former employees, relatives and VSOs will parallel the policy
for employee claims and be transferred to the office of jurisdiction but
that only the folders of relatives and VSOs will be held in the general
files. Former employee folders will be maintained in the locked files
per paragraph 3.04(a)(5).

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Ronald J. Henke, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 42**

**Washington, DC 20420 April 3, 2002**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Page 3-I-1 through 3-I-2:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
Page 3-I-1 through 3-I-2, attached.

Paragraph 3.04(a)(5)Note is amended to to show that the adjudication of
claims for former employees, relatives and VSOs will parallel the policy
for employee claims and be transferred to the office of jurisdiction but
that only the folders of relatives and VSOs will be held in the general
files. Former employee folders will be maintained in the locked files
per paragraph 3.04(a)(5).

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Ronald J. Henke, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 43**

**Washington, DC 20420 June 13, 2002**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Page 4-I-5:** Remove this page and substitute page 4-I-5, attached.

Paragraph 4.03b. is amended to show that in education claims, when a
claimant specifies a school, the RPO with jurisdiction over the school's
location processes the initial claim, and when no school is specified,
the RPO with jurisdiction over the claimant's place of residence
processes the initial claim.

Paragraph 4.03b. **NOTE:** is amended to show that Muskogee RPO
processes Chapter 30 claims if the school is in the Philippines.

**Pages 6-B-5 through 6-B-6**: Remove these pages and substitute page
6-B-5 through 6-B-6, attached.

This appendix is amended to include the African American PTSD
Association to the list of approved powers of attorney.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Ronald J. Henke, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

Veterans Benefits Manual M21-1, Part II

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 44**

**Washington, DC 20420 August 15, 2002**

Veterans Benefits Manual M21-1, Part II, "Clerical Procedures," is
changed as follows:

**Page 1-i**: Remove this page and substitute page 1-i, attached.

**Pages 1-II-1 through 1-II-2:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
1-II-1 through 1-II-3, attached.

This chapter has been revised to incorporate the recommendations of the
Claims Processing Improvement Task Team regarding the Triage Team, its
structure and purpose. There are also several minor changes to reflect
current regional office supervisory structure and titles.

**Rescission:** Change 25.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Ronald J. Henke, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 45**

**Washington, DC 20420 August 23, 2002**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 3-II-1 through 3-II-2:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
3-II-1 through 3-II-2 attached.

Paragraph 3.07 (a) is changed to reflect the duties of file clerks and
their place within the Claims Process Improvement model.

**Pages 7-II-1 through 7-II-2:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
7-II-1 through 7-II-2 attached.

Paragraph 7.05 (b) is modified to discuss the Appeals Team's
responsibility for establishing the Veterans Appeals Control and Locator
System (VACOLS) record, according to the Claims Process Improvement
model.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Ronald J. Henke, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 46**

**Washington, DC 20420 November 27, 2002**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 7-II-1 through 7-II-2:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
7-II-1 through 7-II-2 attached.

Paragraph 7.06e is modified to provide the correct end product number to
be used for award actions resulting from an RO\'s total grant of
benefits sought on appeal.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Ronald J. Henke, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 47**

**Washington, DC 20420 February 4, 2003**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 1-II-1 and 1-II-2:** Remove this page and substitute page 1-II-1
and 1-II-2, attached.

Paragraph 1.09b is amended to show the correct paragraph reference is
1.09c, not 1.10c.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Ronald J. Henke, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

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**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 48**

**Washington, DC 20420 May 1, 2003**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 6-B-5 through 6-B-6**: Remove these pages and substitute page
6-B-5 through 6-B-6, attached.

This appendix is amended to include the Eastern Paralyzed Veterans
Association to the list of approved powers of attorney.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Ronald J. Henke, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

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LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 49**

**Washington, DC 20420 May 20, 2003**

Veterans Benefits Manual M21-1, Part II, Chapter 2, Subchapter III,
\"Filing,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 2-III-1 through 2-III-2**: Remove these pages and substitute
with pages 2-III-1 through 2-III-2, attached.

Paragraph 2.08f(3) has been revised to provide instructions as how to
file the DD Form 214, the military separation document or its
equivalent, in a veteran's claims folder. Other minor formatting and
editorial changes have also been made.

**Rescission**: M21-1, Part II, Change 6, dated April 19, 1993.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Ronald J. Henke

> Director, Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 50**

**Washington, DC 20420 September 3, 2003**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \" Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 3-I-1 through 3-I-4:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
3-I-1 through 3-I-4 attached.

Paragraph 3.04a is amended to reflect that, if no VA Form 20-0344,
"Annual Certification of Veteran Status and Veteran Relatives," is of
record, the employee must complete one upon submission of a claim. Also,
it is no longer mandatory that claims folders for former work-study
participants continue to be locked after the termination of their
employment. The folders may be returned to their former office.

Paragraph 3.04d is amended to reflect the need for annual certification
for claimants who are also VA employees.

The "Note" of paragraph 3.04a(5) is moved to M21-1 Part III 2.07j.

Minor editorial changes have also been made.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Ronald J. Henke, Director

Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 51**

**Washington, DC 20420 October 24, 2003**

Veterans Benefits Manual M21-1, Part II, "Clerical Procedures," is
changed as follows:

**Pages 4-II-1 through 4-II-2:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
4-II-1 through 4-II-2 attached.

Paragraph 4.07 has been amended as follows:

1.  Subparagraph 4.07a. has been updated to refer to VA Form 20-0344a,
    "Notification of an Employee or Employee-Relative Claims File,"
    instead of to the obsolete VA Form 70-4535.

2.  Subparagraph 4.07b. has been revised

    3.  to remove the 90-day waiting period before transferring certain
        employee-veteran records, and

    4.  to delete subparagraph 4.07b(4), since these instructions
        regarding education benefits are now obsolete.

3.  Subparagraph 4.07c. has been amended

    3.  to refer to VA Form 20-0344a instead of to VA Form 70-4535, and

    4.  to state that the veteran's records should be retained in locked
        files for a period of three years after termination of VA
        employment.

4.  Subparagraph 4.07e has been changed to reflect that the list of
    offices of jurisdiction also applies to the Pension Maintenance
    Centers.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Ronald J. Henke, Director

> Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 52**

**Washington, DC 20420 December 22, 2003**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, "Clerical
Procedures," is changed as follows:

**Pages 3-I-1 through 3-I-4:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
3-I-1 through 3-I-4 attached.

Subparagraph 3.04a is amended to provide a definition of the term
"locked files," and to indicate that COVERS may be used to maintain
control of locked files.

Subparagraphs 3.04a(1) through 3.04a(6) are reorganized as subparagraphs
3.04a(1) through 3.04a(3) and revised

-   to reflect that locked files may contain the records of non-VBA
    employees

-   to provide examples of when temporary transfer to the employing
    office would be warranted

-   to show when records of relatives of work-study program participant
    must be secured, and

-   to reflect the need for the folders of former employees, *including
    former work-study program participants*, to remain in locked status
    for three years following separation from duty and then be returned
    to the general files.

    Subparagraph 3.04c is amended to state that, in accordance with
    Office of Inspector General recommendations, restricted records
    which are charged out should be returned to locked files at the end
    of each day.

    Subparagraph 3.04d is reorganized as subparagraphs 3.04d and 3.04e
    and revised

-   to show the correct reference in M20-4 for sensitive file criteria

-   to reflect the need for reciprocal audits with the sister station

-   to state that the ISO can provide a sensitive master file listing,
    and

-   to reflect the need for qualifying work-study program participants
    to complete VA Form 20-0344 annually.

**Rescission**: Change 50

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Ronald J. Henke

> Director, Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 53**

**Washington, DC 20420 January 23, 2004**

Veterans Benefits Manual M21-1, Part II, "Clerical Procedures," is
changed as follows:

**Pages 4-II-1 through 4-II-2:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
4-II-1 through 4-II-2 attached.

Paragraph 4.07e. is amended to show that the Baltimore Regional Office
is the office of jurisdiction for employee-veteran records from the
Appeals Management Center.

**Rescission:** Change 51

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Ronald J. Henke

> Director, Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 54**

**Washington, DC 20420 February 5, 2004**

Veterans Benefits Manual M21-1, Part II, "Clerical Procedures," is
changed as follows:

**Pages 1-I-1 through 1-I-2**: Remove these pages and substitute pages
1-I-1 through 1-I-2, attached.

**Pages 2-I-1 through 2-I-2**: Remove these pages and substitute pages
2-I-1 through 2-I-2, attached.

**Pages 4-I-1 through 4-I-5**: Remove these pages and substitute pages
4-I-1 through 4-I-5, attached.

Paragraph 1.05 is revised; 4.01a.(3) is added, with subsequent
renumbering; 4.01c.(4) and 4.01c.(10) are deleted, with subsequent
renumbering; 4.02a. and 4.02a.(3) are revised; and 4.02c.(2) and (3) are
deleted, with subsequent renumbering. All these changes reflect the fact
that those foreign cases formerly under the jurisdiction of Washington
Regional Office (WRO) are now under the jurisdiction of Pittsburgh
Regional Office (RO). Paragraph 2.02c.(3) is also changed to 2.02d. and
revised, to effect the same change.

Paragraph 2.02d.(2) is revised to show that applications from Central
and South America and the Caribbean should also be sent to the Houston
RO. Paragraph 2.02d.(3) is added to show that applications from Canada
should be sent to the White River Junction VAM&ROC.

Paragraph 2.02d.(1) is amended to show that education applications for
enrollment in a United States school will be

forwarded to the regional processing office having school jurisdiction.

Paragraph 2.02e. is changed to 2.02f., and a new 2.02e. is added to show
that death in service cases are under the jurisdiction of the
Philadelphia RO.

Paragraph 4.01c.(13) is deleted, with subsequent renumbering, as there
is no longer anyone in receipt of Emergency Officers' Retired Pay.

Paragraph 4.02d.(2) is deleted, 4.03d.(3) renumbered as 4.03d.(2), 4.02e
added, and the former 4.02e renumbered as 4.02f. These changes are made
to reflect the fact that death in service cases are under the
jurisdiction of the Philadelphia RO.

> By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits
>
> Ronald J. Henke, Director
>
> Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 54 Erratum**

**Washington, DC 20420 February 19, 2004**

Veterans Benefits Administration Manual M21-1, Part II, \"Clerical
Procedures,\" is changed as follows:

**Pages 2-I-1 and 2-I-2:** Remove these pages and substitute pages 2-I-1
and 2-I-2, attached.

Paragraph 2.02e. is changed to 2.02f., and a new 2.02e. is added to show
that death in service cases are under the jurisdiction of the
Philadelphia RO. Though the transmittal sheet to Change 54 correctly
noted this change, it was not reflected in the accompanying text.

**Pages 4-I-1 and 4-I-2**: Remove these pages and substitute pages 4-I-1
and 4-I-2, attached.

Paragraph 4.01c. is revised to correct the numbering of the first two
subparagraphs, which should be (1) and (2) instead of (2) and (3).

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

Distribution: RPC: 2068

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## Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 55**

**Washington, DC 20420 March 2, 2004**

Veterans Benefits Manual M21-1, Part II, "Clerical Procedures," is
changed as follows:

**Pages 6-I-3 through 6-I-4:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
6-I-3 through 6-I-4, attached.

Paragraph 6.03d.(8) has been revised to show that VA Form 40-4956,
Record of Interment, has been discontinued and to emphasize the timely
processing of Notice of Death messages.

> By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits
>
> Ronald J. Henke, Director
>
> Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

**Veterans Benefits Administration M21-1, Part II**

**Department of Veterans Affairs Change 56**

**Washington, DC 20420 July 1, 2004**

Veterans Benefits Manual M21-1, Part II, "Clerical Procedures," is
changed as follows:

**Pages 1-II-1 and 1-II-2:** Remove these pages and substitute pages
1-II-1 and 1-II-2 attached.

Paragraph 1.08 is revised to remove references to CAPS and replace the
words "CAPS claim suspended reports" with "Pending Detail reports under
Inventory Management System (IMS) Detail Reports."

Paragraph 1.09a(1) is revised to delete education forms as examples of
priority mail at Veterans Service Centers, to reflect that claims by
former prisoners of war and survivors of former prisoners of war are
considered priority mail, and to show a reference to Part III, paragraph
2.14e.

By Direction of the Under Secretary for Benefits

Carolyn F. Hunt, Acting Director

> Compensation and Pension Service

Distribution: RPC: 2068

FD: EX: ASO and AR (included in RPC 2068)

LOCAL REPRODUCTION AUTHORIZED

#