Accrued Benefits
Accrued benefits are VA payments owed to a veteran but not paid before they died. A surviving spouse, child, or dependent parent may be able to collect them.
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Frequently asked questions about Accrued Benefits
What is Accrued Benefits?+
Accrued benefits are VA payments owed to a veteran but not paid before they died. A surviving spouse, child, or dependent parent may be able to collect them.
Who qualifies for Accrued Benefits?+
Surviving spouses, dependent children, and in some cases dependent parents of veterans or workers who paid into Social Security.
How do I apply for Accrued Benefits?+
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. There's no cost to apply. Official forms and instructions: https://www.va.gov/burials-memorials/dependency-indemnity-compensation/.
Where can I get help?+
Survivors of veterans should start with the Survivor Benefits Checklist. For Social Security survivor benefits, contact your local SSA office; there's no cost to apply.