Statement of Marital Relationship (Witness)

The witness providing corroboration. Strong witnesses include: long-time neighbors, family members, coworkers, or anyone who has observed the couple over time.

e.g., Thomas Brown, neighbor, 458 Oak Ave, Phoenix AZ; has known couple since 2015.

Common mistakes

• ×Witnesses with no direct knowledge of the relationship providing a statement - VA gives much more weight to witnesses who can describe specific facts they observed.

The witness describes specific facts they have personally observed: how long they have known the couple, that the couple lives together as a married couple, that they introduce themselves as husband and wife, any specific observations confirming the marital relationship.

e.g., I have known John Smith and Jane Smith as neighbors since June 2015. They live together at the same address, introduce themselves to me as husband and wife, and I have observed them attending family functions together as a married couple over the past 10 years.

Common mistakes

• ×Vague statements ("they seem married") without specific factual observations.
• ×Witnesses simply stating "they told me they were married" rather than what they personally observed.

Authority

• 38 CFR 3.50 - Defines spouse for VA compensation/pension purposes; covers ceremonial, common-law, and same-sex marriages.

The witness signs and dates under penalty of perjury.

(witness signature/date)

Common mistakes

• ×Veteran signing instead of the witness - the witness must sign this form.