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    Survivor Benefits

    Survivors Pension

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

    Also known as

    Death pension

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    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.

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