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    Survivor Benefits

    Survivors Pension — Death pension

    The Survivors Pension is a tax-free monthly VA payment to low-income surviving spouses and unmarried children of wartime veterans.

    Official source: va.gov

    The Survivors Pension is money paid each month by the Department of Veterans Affairs. This money goes to spouses and children of veterans who served during wartime. It helps families who have a low income.To get this pension, the veteran must have served during a time of war. The surviving spouse must have been married to the veteran. Also, the family's income must be below a certain amount set by the VA. This pension is tax-free money.This pension is important because it gives financial help to families after a veteran has passed away. It can help cover living costs. It provides a steady income for those who need it most.If you think you might be able to get the Survivors Pension, you can visit the VA website. You can also call your local VA office. They can tell you more about how to apply. See also: <a href="/glossary/dic">DIC</a>.

    In real life

    • A surviving spouse of a Vietnam veteran with limited income may qualify for the Survivors Pension.
    • Mary, whose husband served in WWII, receives this pension because her income is low.
    • John, the dependent child of a Korean War veteran, gets money from this program since his family needs financial help.

    Also known as

    Death pension

    Take the next step

    Frequently asked questions about Survivors Pension

    What is Survivors Pension?+

    The Survivors Pension is a tax-free monthly VA payment to low-income surviving spouses and unmarried children of wartime veterans.

    Who qualifies for Survivors Pension?+

    Surviving spouses, dependent children, and in some cases dependent parents of veterans or workers who paid into Social Security.

    How do I apply for Survivors Pension?+

    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/pension/survivors-pension/.

    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.

    Source: va.gov

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