How can I add a parent as a dependent?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Dec 2019 17:27:16 -0500

i was wondering on how i could have my mother listed as my dependent and have her move to new york with me? like what’s the process and what would i have to do? my mother is a single and she’s disabled(she gets paid for her disability) so it’s been hard for her to pay for bills so she’s literally broke and can barely pay for bills since i’ve been gone for 6 months. what do i have to do? i’d rather have her live in new york with me and have me watch her then have her live back home and struggle

Response by LTC Tom McNew made Dec 4 at 2019 5:42 PM

LTC Tom McNew — Wed, 04 Dec 2019 17:42:19 -0500

Go talk to your S-1. First thing the Army is going to expect you to prove is that you provide more than 50% of her support. So if she is struggling to make ends meet and you can show where you've had to pay her bills or send her money, then you could be ok on that point.
She will also have to be willing to give up some of her independence and autonomy. Which may not be an issue either if she is already disabled.
It is not an easy process, but it is doable. Your S-1 can give you a packet that you'll have to fill out.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Dec 4 at 2019 5:43 PM

LTC Jason Mackay — Wed, 04 Dec 2019 17:43:57 -0500

Google DFAS parent dependent, first hit. https://www.dfas.mil/militarymembers/SecondaryDependency/SDC.html

Do your initial research, get with your first line and put together your packet.

SDC.html

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 4 at 2019 5:54 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Dec 2019 17:54:46 -0500

financially struggles alone are not valid reason to have a parent listed as a dependent. It would take legal documentation that she is not capable of caring for herself physically, medically or making financial decisions for herself. you would have to be declared a legal guardian. After that each military branch has their own limitations on parental guardianship. With that you would also require a family care plan to designate a care provider in the event that you deploy.

Response by SFC Joanna Rydzewski made Dec 5 at 2019 12:54 AM

SFC Joanna Rydzewski — Thu, 05 Dec 2019 00:54:21 -0500

Seek advice from Jag. Best way.