District Of Columbia § 49-1001 - Definitions.
Full text of District Of Columbia D.C. Code § 49-1001 — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 49-1001. Definitions.
49-1001For the purposes of this chapter, the term:
“Benefit” means any payment, service, commodity, function, or status, entitlement to which is determined under laws administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or by any agency of the District government that affects veterans, their dependents, or their survivors.
“Claim” means an application made pursuant to:
Title 38 of the United States Code, and implementing regulations, for entitlement to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs benefits, reinstatement, continuation, or increase of benefits, or the defense of a proposed agency adverse action concerning benefits; and
District of Columbia law or regulations for entitlement to benefits, reinstatement, continuation, or increase in benefits, or the defense of proposed agency adverse action concerning benefits.
“Resident of the District” means:
An individual who currently lives in the District of Columbia and has no present intention of moving elsewhere; or
An individual who previously lived in the District, is temporarily absent from the District, and intends to return to live permanently in the District after the temporary absence.
“Veteran” means any individual who:
Has previously served on active duty in the United States Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard, or served as a Merchant Marine between December 7, 1941 and August 15, 1945, has been honorably discharged or relieved from active duty, and has served for a minimum of 2 years, unless:
Earlier release was granted because the individual was wounded or injured in the line of duty and rendered unfit for further service; or
The individual was released prior to 2 years of active duty for the convenience of the government; and
Is a resident of the District.
Annotations
Source: official District Of Columbia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About District Of Columbia § 49-1001
What does D.C. Code § 49-1001 cover?
Section 49-1001 ("Definitions.") is part of the D.C. Code, the codified statutory law of District Of Columbia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite District Of Columbia § 49-1001?
A common citation format is "D.C. Code § 49-1001" (District Of Columbia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of District Of Columbia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the District Of Columbia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed District Of Columbia attorney.
How does District Of Columbia § 49-1001 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in District Of Columbia.