Survivor & Dependent Benefits
DIC, survivors pension, and benefits for spouses, children, and parents of veterans.
113 articles · Page 1 of 6
SSDI Back Pay: How It Works and When You Get It
The good news on the other side of the SSDI waiting period is SSDI back pay. We'll tell you how back pay is calculated & how you're compensated.
SSI Back Pay: How You Get It, How It Impacts You
SSI back pay covers the period from the month after you applied until your approval date, at your current monthly benefit rate. If it exceeds three times the maximum monthly amount, it’s paid in up to three installments, unless you have a financial hardship.
2027 COLA: Which Benefits Increase — and Which Don’t
The annual COLA increase doesn’t just raise Social Security checks — it affects SSI, veterans’ benefits, SNAP, and more. Learn how COLA changes your benefits and what to expect each year.
SSDI Pay Chart 2027: Average Payments, COLA & How Your Benefit Is Calculated
Here’s how SSDI payments work, what is changing for 2027 and how to get a better idea of your own benefit.
VA Pension: A Financial Safety Net for Veterans and Their Families
The VA pension provides financial support to eligible wartime veterans and their survivors — here's how it works, how much it gives, and more.
Veterans Benefits Guide: Disability, Health Care, Education, Housing & More
Explore a variety of military benefits available to you, each tailored to meet specific needs and ensure a secure, prosperous future.
Understanding the VA Special Monthly Compensation: A Guide for Veterans
We'll tell you all about the VA Special Monthly Compensation program — how it works, how much it pays, and how it differs from regular VA disability.
2027 VA Disability Pay Schedule & COLA Dates
VA disability compensation is paid on the first business day of the month, covering the previous month's benefits. If the 1st falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the VA pays you on the last business day before it instead.
Social Security Spousal Benefits: Your Guide to Payments
Thinking about Social Security spousal benefits? Learn how these payments work, who can get them, and how to apply for extra money based on your spouse's record.
Is a Medicare Enrollment Freeze Coming for Hospice Providers?
A Medicare enrollment freeze for hospice care providers could be coming in late March 2026. Learn what this means for you and what steps to take.
Is Medicare Being Privatized? What A Proposed Enrollment Change Could Mean For You
Learn how a proposed Medicare enrollment change could affect you. We explain the shift toward private Medicare Advantage plans and what it means for your healthcare choices.
Unemployment Identity Theft: What to Look For
Scammers may use your Social Security number to file fake unemployment claims. If you get a letter about benefits you didn't apply for, act fast.
LIHEAP on the Chopping Block in Proposed 2027 Budget
A proposed budget could cut funding for LIHEAP, a vital program helping low-income families pay energy bills. Learn what this means for your household and how to prepare for potential changes.
Why Social Security Fairness Act Payments are Taking Longer than Expected
See if your Social Security benefits are delayed due to the Social Security Fairness Act. Learn what the act means for your payments and how to stay informed.
Tax Refund Season 2026 Looks to Be a Big One: Here's Why
Get ready for a bigger tax refund this year! Learn why changes to tax laws mean more money back in your pocket. Find out how to file with confidence.
Why Some Social Security Recipients Could See Smaller Tax Refunds
Some Social Security recipients get smaller tax refunds due to WEP and GPO rules. Learn how these rules may affect your benefits.
Navigating Trump’s 'No Tax On Overtime' Deduction: Who Qualifies and How to Claim It
Learn if you qualify for Trump's "no tax on overtime" deduction for 2025. See how to claim this benefit to lower your taxable income.
Illinois Veterans Benefits: 2026 Programs, Services & How to Apply
Illinois veterans benefits in 2026 provide extensive support for education, health care, housing, employment, and family services. From the Illinois Veterans’ Grant covering tuition to state health insurance, housing tax exemptions, and business opportunities, this guide explains who qualifies, what’s available, and how to apply—so veterans and their families can maximize the benefits they’ve earned.
Medicaid Retroactive Coverage Change: A Shifting Burden of Costs
Retroactive coverage changes are framed as cost-saving but mostly shift bills onto patients, hospitals, and nursing facilities.
The Unemployment Benefit Dilemma: How Lower Earners Are Shortchanged
Lower earners often get less unemployment than expected due to wage replacement rates and weekly caps. Here's why—and what you can do.
