How are eligible dependents defined?

Eligible dependents are defined as the following: Spouse of the veteran Widow/Widower of the deceased veteran Dependant parent of veteran, or Any person who acted as a parent to the veteran for five years immediately preceding the commencement of the veteran’s wartime service. Child of veteran through 19 years of age Child of a veteran between 19 years of age and 23 years of age while the child is attending high school or an institute of higher learning, or some other accredited educational institution provided that the applicant is in receipt of benefits under the provisions of M.G.L. c. 115. Child of veteran over 18 years of age who is mentally or physically unable to support himself or herself and was affected by the disability prior to his or her 18th birthday Legally adopted children of the veteran.