VA Survivor Benefits
The VA provides ongoing support for the families of veterans who gave everything.
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)
DIC is a tax-free monthly benefit paid to eligible survivors of veterans who died from a service-connected condition. The current base rate is over $1,500/month, with additional amounts for dependent children.
Important: A surviving spouse may also qualify for DIC if the veteran was rated 100% P&T continuously for 10 or more years prior to death, regardless of the cause of death. This is a critical distinction many surviving families don't know about.
DIC Monthly Compensation
Tax-free monthly payments to eligible surviving spouses and dependents. The rate increases for each dependent child and if the survivor needs Aid & Attendance.
CHAMPVA Health Insurance
Surviving spouses and children of 100% P&T veterans are eligible for CHAMPVA coverage, which pays 75% of approved healthcare costs.
DEA Education Benefits
Surviving spouses and children may receive Chapter 35 Dependents Educational Assistance—a monthly stipend for education and training expenses.
Home Loan Eligibility
Unremarried surviving spouses of veterans who died on active duty or from service-connected causes retain VA home loan eligibility.
Who Qualifies for DIC?
- ✓Surviving spouse of a veteran who died from a service-connected condition
- ✓Surviving spouse of a veteran rated 100% P&T for 10+ consecutive years before death
- ✓Surviving spouse of a veteran who died on active duty
- ✓Dependent children of eligible veterans in certain circumstances