AI-summarized from official sources and checked against the source text. Each item links to the official page.
In this update: 1 mixed, 2 procedural, 2 unclear.
The M21-1 is the manual VA claims processors follow. VA lists every update on its KnowVA "Changes by Date" page. These are the August 2026 updates that relate to benefits we cover.
These updates change how VA processes claims. They do not change the benefit amounts or rules on our pages; those come only from the law and official benefit pages.
Aug 17, 2026 · M21-1 XI.ii.3.CLink to “Aug 17, 2026 · M21-1 XI.ii.3.C”
Unclear — check the official pageWho: survivors and family members requesting accrued benefits or substitutionWhy: We couldn't confirm the effect on veterans from the official text.
What changed. M21-1, Part XI, Subpart ii, Chapter 3, Section C - Development for Accrued and Requests for Substitution Updated to add guidance for evidence needed to complete a request to substitute and clarify bore the expenses.
Source quotes
M21-1, Part XI, Subpart ii, Chapter 3, Section C - Development for Accrued and Requests for Substitution
Updated to add guidance for evidence needed to complete a request to substitute and clarify bore the expenses.
Official source (external site)
Aug 18, 2026 · M21-1 IV.i.2.ALink to “Aug 18, 2026 · M21-1 IV.i.2.A”
Procedural / no direct effectWhy: This is an update to VA's internal claims-processing manual on how staff request exams, including a revised section on ACE (records-based) exams. The source text does not show any new benefit, eligibility rule, or requirement for veterans, so there is no clear practical effect on claimants.
What changed. M21-1, Part IV, Subpart i, Chapter 2, Section A - Examination Requests Overview Updated guidance on ACE examinations.
Source quotes
M21-1, Part IV, Subpart i, Chapter 2, Section A - Examination Requests Overview
Updated guidance on ACE examinations.
Official source (external site)
Aug 18, 2026 · M21-1 IV.i.2.ELink to “Aug 18, 2026 · M21-1 IV.i.2.E”
Unclear — check the official pageWho: survivors of deceased veterans (indirectly, via VA claims processors)Why: We couldn't confirm the effect on veterans from the official text.
What changed. M21-1, Part IV, Subpart i, Chapter 2, Section E - Examinations in Special Situations Updated to add guidance on examinations and medical opinions involving deceased Veterans.
Source quotes
M21-1, Part IV, Subpart i, Chapter 2, Section E - Examinations in Special Situations
Updated to add guidance on examinations and medical opinions involving deceased Veterans.
Official source (external site)
Aug 19, 2026 · M21-1 I.i.2.CLink to “Aug 19, 2026 · M21-1 I.i.2.C”
Procedural / no direct effectWhy: This is an update to VA's internal claims-processing manual. It changes the POA codes for State organizations used in VA's electronic systems, and no new benefit, deadline, or requirement for veterans or their representatives is described. The surrounding text on appointment forms restates existing staff procedures.
What changed. M21-1, Part I, Subpart i, Chapter 2, Section C - System Updates for Power of Attorney (POA) Appointments Updated POA codes for State organizations.
Source quotes
M21-1, Part I, Subpart i, Chapter 2, Section C - System Updates for Power of Attorney (POA) Appointments
Updated POA codes for State organizations.
Official source (external site)
Aug 21, 2026 · M21-1 VI.ii.1.ALink to “Aug 21, 2026 · M21-1 VI.ii.1.A”
MixedWho: Veterans receiving compensation whose rating was reduced and who may qualify for pensionWhy: A Veteran whose compensation is cut and who may now qualify for a higher pension payment may be asked to submit a new pension application (VA Form 21P-527EZ) with current income and asset details. If VA receives it within one year of asking and pension can be granted, pension is paid from the date entitlement arose or when pension became the greater benefit. This is an extra paperwork step, b
What changed. M21-1, Part VI, Subpart ii, Chapter 1, Section A - General Information on Elections Updated to add guidance on what evidence may be needed when a Veteran, in receipt of compensation, receives a reduction in evaluation and pension may be the greater benefit.
Source quotes
M21-1, Part VI, Subpart ii, Chapter 1, Section A - General Information on Elections
Updated to add guidance on what evidence may be needed when a Veteran, in receipt of compensation, receives a reduction in evaluation and pension may be the greater benefit.
Official source (external site)
Full list: 2026 M21-1 Changes by Date on KnowVA (external site)