VA Form Gets More Users: Snore-Inducing Paperwork Update
Published Date: 2/26/2026
Notice
Summary
The Department of Veterans Affairs is asking for public feedback by March 30, 2026, on a form that lets someone else sign benefit applications for veterans. This form helps the VA verify who’s authorized to act on a veteran’s behalf. While the form itself isn’t changing, more people are expected to use it, which means a bit more paperwork for everyone involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Alternate signer form required
If someone else signs VA benefit applications for you, the VA uses VA Form 21-0972 (Alternate Signer Certification) to collect that person's contact and authorization information so VA can verify they are allowed to act for the veteran or claimant.
Increased paperwork burden
Filling out VA Form 21-0972 takes about 15 minutes per person. The VA estimates 22,278 respondents per year, for a total estimated annual burden of 5,570 hours.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-03864, Agency Information Collection Activity Under OMB Review: Authorization To Disclose Personal Information to a Third Party
The Department of Veterans Affairs is asking for feedback on a form that lets veterans share their personal info with others, like family or helpers. No changes were made to the form itself, but more people are using it, so the paperwork load has grown. If you want to comment, you’ve got until March 30, 2026, to speak up—no cost to you, just your voice!
Next: 2026-03868, Request for Comments on the Design of a Plurilateral Agreement on Trade in Critical Minerals and Policy Actions To Strengthen the Resilience of Critical Mineral Supply Chains
The U.S. wants your ideas on a new trade deal to make sure we have steady, fair access to important minerals used in tech and clean energy. This plan aims to boost mining and processing at home and with friendly countries, keeping prices fair and supply strong. If you’re involved in mining, manufacturing, or trade, speak up by March 19, 2026, to help shape policies that could impact jobs and investments.