38 U.S.C. § 5124: Acceptance of claimant’s statement as proof of relationship

For purposes of benefits under laws administered by the Secretary, the Secretary may accept the written statement of a claimant as proof of the existence of any relationship specified in subsection (b) for the purpose of acting on such individual’s claim for benefits. Marriage. Dissolution of a marriage. Birth of a child. Death of any family member. the claimant does not reside within a State; the statement on its face raises a question as to its validity; there is conflicting information of record; or there is reasonable indication, in the statement or otherwise, of fraud or misrepresentation.