Survivor Benefits — VA
A range of VA benefits available to surviving spouses, children, and parents of veterans who died in service or as a result of a service-connected condition.
Official source: va.gov
Survivor benefits are a range of financial aids provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for the families of veterans who have died in service or from a service-related condition.
One key benefit is Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC). This is a monthly payment for surviving spouses, children, and sometimes parents. It is not based on income, meaning that families can receive this benefit regardless of their financial situation.
Another benefit is the VA Survivors Pension, which is designed for low-income surviving spouses and children of wartime veterans. This pension helps families who may be struggling financially.
Additionally, there is an Aid and Attendance Enhancement. This is for survivors who require help with daily activities, such as bathing or eating.
To access these benefits, survivors must apply separately for each type. Common pitfalls include missing deadlines or not providing enough documentation, which can delay or deny benefits. It is important for families to gather all necessary information and submit applications on time.
In real life
- A spouse whose husband died during his military service can apply for survivor benefits.
- Someone whose parent died from an illness caused by their military duty can receive survivor benefits.
- A child whose mother passed away from a service-related injury may be able to get survivor benefits.
Also known as
Take the next step
Frequently asked questions about Survivor Benefits
What is Survivor Benefits?+
A range of VA benefits available to surviving spouses, children, and parents of veterans who died in service or as a result of a service-connected condition, including DIC, VA Survivors Pension, and burial benefits. Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): service-connected death benefit, not income-based.
Who qualifies for Survivor Benefits?+
VA Survivors Pension: income-based benefit for low-income surviving spouses/children of wartime veterans.
How do I apply for Survivor Benefits?+
Apply at va.gov (search for the program by name) or work with a free accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) through your state VA office.
Where can I get help?+
Use BenefitKarma's free Benefit Eligibility Screener to see what VA benefits you may have missed, or talk with a free accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) through your state VA office.
Source: va.gov