without consideration of the uncertified statement. d. Returning an If the rating activity determines certification of an individual’s statement is Uncertified required to establish SC Statement photocopy the uncertified statement type the appropriate certification language (from M21-1, Part III, Subpart iii, 1.B.7.a) on the photocopy and provide a signature line advise the individual that failure to certify the statement within 30 days may result in a denial of benefits send the photocopy to the individual for certification, and maintain the original document in the claims folder. 8. Requirement for Affidavits or Certification Introduction This topic contains information on VA’s requirement for affidavits or certification of statements or evidence submitted in support of a claim, including means of satisfying VA’s requirement for an affidavit or certification, and alternate means of certification. Change Date October 14, 2011 If VA regulations require an affidavit or certification, an individual may a. Means of Satisfying VA’s satisfy this requirement by completing the appropriate VA form that contains Requirement a certification statement. Therefore, when requesting evidence to support a for an Affidavit claim, enclose the appropriate VA form with the request. or Certification VA uses to obtain information from a claimant Example: VA Form 21-686c about his/her dependents. This form contains the following statement above the space provided for the claimant’s signature: I hereby certify that the information I have given above is true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.
without consideration of the uncertified statement. d. Returning an Uncertified Statement If the rating activity determines certification of an individual’s statement is required to establish SC photocopy the uncertified statement type the appropriate certification language (from M21-1, Part III, Subpart iii, 1.B.7.a) on the photocopy and provide a signature line advise the individual that failure to certify the statement within 30 days may result in a denial of benefits send the photocopy to the individual for certification, and maintain the original document in the claims folder. 8. Requirement for Affidavits or Certification Introduction This topic contains information on VA’s requirement for affidavits or certification of statements or evidence submitted in support of a claim, including means of satisfying VA’s requirement for an affidavit or certification, and alternate means of certification. Change Date October 14, 2011 a. Means of Satisfying VA’s Requirement for an Affidavit or Certification If VA regulations require an affidavit or certification, an individual may satisfy this requirement by completing the appropriate VA form that contains a certification statement. Therefore, when requesting evidence to support a claim, enclose the appropriate VA form with the request. Example: VA uses VA Form 21-686c to obtain information from a claimant about his/her dependents. This form contains the following statement above the space provided for the claimant’s signature: I hereby certify that the information I have given above is true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief.