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.
VA Survivors Pension: income-based benefit for low-income surviving spouses/children of wartime veterans.
Aid and Attendance Enhancement: additional benefit for survivors needing daily care assistance.
→ *Survivors must apply separately for each benefit type.*
Also known as
Related terms
- Aid and Attendance
A VA pension benefit that provides an additional monthly payment to veterans and surviving spouses who require the help of another person to perform daily activities or who are housebound.
- DIC
A tax-free monthly benefit paid by the VA to eligible surviving spouses, dependent children, and parents of service members who died on active duty or veterans who died from a service-connected condition.
- VA Burial Benefits
VA Burial Benefits help pay for burial, funeral, and headstone costs for eligible veterans. They can include a partial allowance and a free grave marker.
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Frequently asked questions about Survivor Benefits
What are VA Survivor Benefits?+
VA Survivor Benefits are special payments and support for the families of veterans. These benefits are for spouses, children, and sometimes parents of service members who died in service or because of a service-related health problem. They can include programs like DIC and help with burial costs.
Who can get VA Survivor Benefits?+
Surpassing spouses, dependent children, and sometimes parents of a deceased veteran may be able to get these benefits. The veteran must have died during their military service, or their death must have been caused by a service-related condition. The VA looks at each case carefully.
How do I apply for VA Survivor Benefits?+
You can apply for VA Survivor Benefits by filling out the correct forms and submitting them to the Department of Veterans Affairs. You will need to provide proof of your relationship to the veteran and information about how the veteran died. Our site can help you understand the process.
How much money can I get from VA Survivor Benefits?+
The amount you can receive from VA Survivor Benefits changes based on different factors. This includes the type of benefit, your relationship to the veteran, and whether you have other dependents. For specific amounts, you can check the VA's official websites or use our tools to learn more.