Survivor Benefits for Military Families: Understanding DIC and Your Rights
Monetary compensation does not bring back a loved one lost too soon. It does provide you with the financial means to continue living your life. VA survivor benefits are a critical component of building future financial stability.
November is a time of remembrance with both Veterans Day and National Military Family Appreciation Month. It is the right time to talk about veteran survivor benefits and how they apply in your situation. Many windows and family members are not aware of or may not understand these benefits. They can be quite complicated, and there is often no one to teach you your rights. Even years after a veteran’s death, you may still be able to recover these benefits.
Moreover, recent updates to VA rules have expanded eligibility in certain cases. In all situations, if you believe you may qualify, we encourage you to speak to The VA Claims Lawyer now to learn what your obligations and rights are.
What Are Survivor Benefits?
There are several VA programs available to help surviving spouses, children, and sometimes the parents of the lost individual. Take a look at some of the most common types of survivor benefits:
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): Issued by the VA, these benefits cover the surviving spouse, dependent children, or dependent parents. They are a tax-free monthly payment sent to the covered beneficiaries. To be eligible, the service member’s or veteran’s death must be related to the service they provided. This may include those who died during active duty or from a service-connected illness or injury.
Survivor Pension: Also issued by the VA, a Survivor Pension benefits low-income, unremarried surviving spouses or unmarried dependent children. It also issues a tax-free monthly payment. To be eligible, the veteran must have had wartime service. Additionally, eligibility is determined by the survivor’s income and net worth. The veteran’s cause of death does not have to be related to their service.
Accrued Benefits: The VA issues this to eligible survivors who may take on a deceased veteran’s pending claim, such as the spouse, children, or parents. It provides a one-time lump-sum payment to cover unpaid benefits due to the veteran prior to their death.
VA benefits for widows, children, and sometimes parents can be a critical financial relief. If you are unsure if you qualify for any, reach out to Al Girodano, The VA Claims Lawyer, for clarification.
Understanding DIC (Dependency and Indemnity Compensation)
DIC claims are available to beneficiaries who are surviving spouses, children, and sometimes the parents of the veteran. They are only applicable when the veteran died in the line of duty or suffered another demise from a service-connected disability.
These VA survivor benefits will issue a monthly tax-free payment. The value of this benefit starts with a base rate. It is then increased for dependents and for special circumstances. This base rate changes annually. For 2025, it is $1,653.06.
DIC claims are common when the veteran died while in active duty. Additionally, it may be applicable in situations where they suffered an injury or illness as a result of their duty. Delayed onset can be applicable.
Changes and New Rules Survivors Should Know
Laws change, and that means that VA benefits for surviving spouses have been updated. New eligibility rules apply under the PACT Act and other rules. Consider the following specific changes:
Remarried Spouses: The new law allows surviving spouses to continue receiving VA benefits after remarriage. This only applies in situations where the spouse is 55 years of age or older at the time of remarriage.
Expanded Coverage: The PACT Act specifically provides advanced coverage for victims of toxic exposure. That means that you may qualify for these benefits across a larger scope of conditions.
Simplified Application: The process of obtaining these benefits has also improved. The process now offers a more white-glove service. The process is done through VA Form 21P-534EZ.
VA benefits for surviving spouses can be complex, and that means you must understand your rights and limitations over time. Working with a VA benefits attorney can provide clarity on any aspect of your situation.
How to Apply for DIC or Survivor Benefits
There are several steps to take to obtain these benefits. A formal application process is necessary. If you are a surviving spouse of a child of a veteran, you can use VA Form 21P-534EZ to apply for DIC as well as Survivors' Pension and Accrued Benefits. VA Form 21P-534a is used to apply for benefits if your loved one died in active duty. VA Form 21P-535 also allows a surviving parent, when there is no spouse or child, to apply.
To apply, you will need to present critical information. That includes the death certificate of the individual and proof of your relationship to them, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate. A school certification letter is also necessary if the child is between the ages of 18 and 23.
The application process can be completed electronically through the AccessVA QuickSubmit tool on the website, in person, or by mail. No matter how you apply, ensuring accuracy is essential. Avoid costly mistakes and oversights, such as entering the wrong date of birth.
Having an accredited VA attorney or representative can help you navigate this process and simplify it for you overall. We are here to guide you through the process.
Appealing a Denied Survivor Claim
If you receive a denial of your claim, speak to a VA attorney for guidance. You will need to file an appeal within the deadline provided to you. Your attorney will help you gather the medical nexus evidence or challenge inaccurate decisions.
Seek the Guidance of a Trusted VA Benefits Attorney
Survivors do not have to face these challenges on their own. No matter how long it has been, contact The VA Benefits Lawyer for guidance. Call us at 877-VET-FILE or (850) 542-7985 now or use our contact form for a free VA claims review. With the guidance of a veteran disability lawyer, you will have more confidence going forward.
FAQs About DIC and Survivor Benefits for Military Families
Do VA benefits for surviving spouses end?
In most situations, VA benefits for the surviving spouse continue even after remarriage, if remarried after the age of 55.
Do I keep commissary and exchange privileges?
You maintain these benefits long-term until you remarry. They can be reinstated if your marriage ends in death.
What is the PACT Act?
This law expands access to healthcare and benefits for veterans who experienced toxic exposure.
Learn More: What Exactly Does the PACT Act Do for Veterans?