Fiduciary

Program Description

VA's Fiduciary Program was established to protect Veterans and other beneficiaries who, due to injury, disease, or due to age, are unable to manage their financial affairs. VA will only determine an individual to be unable to manage their financial affairs after receipt of medical documentation or if a court of competent jurisdiction has already made the determination. 

Upon determining a beneficiary is unable to manage their financial affairs, VA will appoint a fiduciary. The fiduciary, normally chosen by the beneficiary, must undergo an investigation of their suitability to serve. This investigation may include a criminal background check, review of credit report,  and a personal interview (may be telephonic, virtual, or in-person).  Once a complete and thorough investigation has been conducted, the fiduciary is then appointed as a VA-appointed fiduciary. The fiduciary is ultimately responsible to the beneficiary and oversees financial management of the beneficiary’s VA benefit payments. Generally, family members or friends serve as fiduciaries for beneficiaries; however, when friends  or family members are not able to serve, VA looks for qualified individuals or organizations to serve as a fiduciary.

Application Process

To become a fiduciary for a family member, friend, or as a professional), you may self-register by submitting a “Potential Fiduciary Application” via the Access VA website. You may access the job-aid that contains step-by-step instructions for the application process by clicking here.