US HB3123

Creates new Section 5121B in Title 38 requiring VA pension payments awarded to a veteran before death but issued after death to be paid to surviving family in priority order: spouse, children (equal shares), dependent parents (equal shares), or the veteran's estate

Requires survivors to file an application within one year of the veteran's death to receive accrued pension benefits; otherwise payments default to the veteran's estate unless it would escheat to the state

Extends the deadline for certain pension payment limits from January 31, 2033 to February 28, 2033 under Section 5503(d)(7)

Applies only to veteran deaths occurring on or after the date of enactment

Passed the House of Representatives on February 2, 2026