If a veteran dies from a service-connected disability, their survivors and dependents may be entitled to monthly VA benefits through a DIC claim.

Summary

Survivors and dependents of deceased veterans may qualify for VA benefits under the Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) program.
DIC is a tax-free financial benefit for surviving spouses, children, and parents who have lost a loved one due to military service.
To qualify for DIC, surviving spouses must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as marriage duration or having a child with the veteran.
To receive DIC benefits, eligible children must be unmarried, under 18 (or 23 if in school), and not included in a spouse’s compensation.
Parents, including biological, adoptive, or foster, may qualify if their income falls below the threshold in the Parents DIC Rate Table.
DIC rates depend on circumstances such as disability needs, dependent children, or the veteran’s service details.

The sacrifices made by our veterans extend far beyond their own lives, often impacting their families. When veterans’ service leads to their untimely passing, their dependents and survivors are entitled to certain benefits. At Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia, we believe in leaving no one behind.

Our experienced attorneys understand the intricacies of VA survivor benefits and will champion your rights. From Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) to the Survivor’s Pension, we’re here to guide you through the process of securing compensation to take care of your family.

We approach each case compassionately, understanding that you’re dealing with loss while navigating this challenging system. Start claiming VA survivors and dependents benefits with the support of experienced veterans benefits lawyers at WHG.

Call us at (800) 320-HELP or submit our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.

VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation

If you are a surviving spouse, child, or parent of a service member who lost their life while on active duty or a veteran who passed away due to a service-connected injury or illness, you may qualify for a tax-free financial benefit called Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC).

This program offers crucial support to those who have endured the loss of a loved one who dedicated their life to serving the nation. The government designed DIC to provide financial stability and recognition for the sacrifices veterans and their families made in service to their country.

Types of Survivors Who Are Eligible for DIC Benefits

Three groups of people are entitled to VA survivors and dependents benefits: spouses, children, and spouses of deceased veterans. However, there are specific eligibility requirements that you must meet to successfully claim DIC benefits.

Eligibility Requirements for a Surviving Spouse

You may qualify for VA survivors and dependents benefits as a surviving spouse under one of two conditions. One circumstance would be if you lived continuously with the veteran or service member until their passing. Or, if you were separated, the separation wasn’t due to any fault of your own. Additionally, one of these must apply: You married the Veteran or service member within 15 years of their military discharge when the service-related illness or injury began or worsened. You and the Veteran or service member had a child together. Your marriage to the Veteran or service member lasted at least one year. If you have remarried, you may still be eligible for benefits if one of these conditions applies: You remarried on or after December 16, 2003, and were 57 or older. You got remarried on or after January 5, 2021, and were at least 55.

Entitlement Requirements for Surviving Children

As a children of a deceased service member or veterans you could qualify for VA benefits or compensation if you meet the following criteria: You are not listed as part of the surviving spouse’s compensation. You are unmarried. You're under 18 years of age, or under 23 if you’re currently enrolled in school. Being adopted outside the Veteran’s or service member’s family does not disqualify a child from compensation, as long as they meet all the other eligibility requirements.

Eligibility Standards for Surviving Parents

You may qualify for VA survivors and dependents benefits or compensation if you are the biological, adoptive, or foster parent of a deceased veteran or service member. In addition, your income should fall below the specified threshold in the Parents DIC Rate Table. The VA defines a foster parent as an individual who assumed a parental role for the veteran or service member prior to their last active-duty enlistment.

DIC Rates for Spouses and Children

The 2025 VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) rates apply to surviving spouses and dependent children of veterans. These additional VA benefits are completely tax-free. Therefore, you won’t owe any taxes on the payments the VA sends you. The updated rates took effect on December 1, 2024.

How Much DIC Compensation Can I Get as a Spouse?

If the veteran passed away on or after January 1, 1993, the monthly surviving spouse compensation rate is $1,653.07. Additional amounts may apply based on these factors:

The Veteran was rated totally disabled for at least 8 years prior to their death, and you were married for those 8 years ( Additional $351.02).
You have a disability that requires assistance with daily tasks like bathing, eating, or dressing (Additional $409.53).
Your disability prevents you from leaving your home (Additional $191.85).
You have one or more children under 18 (Additional $350).

If you’re a spouse of a veteran who passed away before January 1, 1993, a different process is used to calculate your DIC monthly payment. For surviving spouses with or without dependent children, first locate your Veteran’s pay grade in the left column of the Monthly Payment Rates chart.

Then, find the corresponding monthly payment in the right column. You must then review the Added or Increased Amounts table. Include any additional amounts that apply to your situation for the veteran’s disability rating or for dependent children under 18.

How Much VA Compensation Am I Eligible to Get as a Surviving Child?

For surviving children, the monthly payment depends on whether the veteran has a surviving spouse eligible for DIC. When the veteran has an eligible surviving spouse:

Children aged between 18 and 23 and who are enrolled in a qualified school program: $346.95 per month
Dependent child under 18: $697.96 per month

Where the veteran has eligible children but no surviving spouse, the monthly payment for each child decreases depending on the number of surviving children. The highest monthly rate is $697.96 for one child, $502.04 for two, $436.74 for three, and $311.57 for nine children.

DIC Compensation Rates for Parents

Your monthly compensation is based on the 2025 VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) rates for surviving parents of veterans. These rates became effective on December 1, 2024.

For eligible surviving parents, your monthly DIC rate depends on your income range. The VA will also consider whether there is only one surviving parent or two. Rates may also vary based on whether the parents live together or separately.

Collect Your VA Survivors and Dependents Benefits With Our Help

The loss of a loved one can leave behind a considerable financial burden for their family. Set up a free consultation with a WHG attorney to discuss your VA survivors and dependents benefits claim today.

What a Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia Veterans Benefits Lawyer Brings to Your Claim

Understanding VA benefits and navigating the Dependency and Indemnity Compensation claims process can be overwhelming for surviving spouses and dependents. Collaborating with a skilled veterans benefits lawyer at Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia (WHG) can simplify the process. Additionally, it can improve your chances of success.

Expert Guidance Through the VA Claims Process for DIC Benefits

Our VA-accredited lawyers are experienced and possess in-depth knowledge of veterans benefits law, including the intricacies of DIC claims. We’ll guide you through every step of the process. That includes helping you understand the legal requirements and available options.

Personalized Case Management

Every case is unique, and our veterans disability benefits lawyers provide tailored attention to your situation. We take the time to understand your circumstances, crafting a strategy focused on achieving the best possible outcome for you and your family.

Thorough Document Preparation

An incomplete or poorly organized application can lead to delays or denials of your VA survivors and dependents assistance claim. To build a strong case, our lawyers meticulously gather and organize all necessary paperwork. This includes service records, medical evidence, and financial details.

Strategic Advocacy for Maximum VA Benefits for Survivors and Dependents

The VA-accredited lawyers at Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia will advocate passionately on your behalf. We evaluate the specifics of your claim and work to uncover every detail that could strengthen your case. Our goal is to help you pursue the maximum benefits you qualify for under the law.

Representation During Appeals

If the VA denies your VA survivors and dependents benefits claim, our lawyers won’t stop fighting. We provide adept representation during VA appeals, preparing persuasive arguments and presenting evidence to overturn unfavorable decisions. Our team can give you peace of mind during tough times.

Contact WHG Veteran Benefits Attorneys About Getting VA Survivors and Dependents Assistance

If you’re a surviving spouse or dependent of a deceased veteran or service member, don’t face the challenges of pursuing a VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) benefits claim alone. The seasoned VA-accredited attorneys at Werner, Hoffman, Greig & Garcia are here to provide you with expert guidance and unwavering support.

Take the first step toward securing your future by reaching out about VA appeals for Survivors and Dependents benefits. Call us at (800) 320-HELP or submit an online contact form for a free consultation.

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FAQs about VA Survivors and Dependents Benefits Claims

Why did the VA deny my DIC claim?

Your DIC claim might have been denied for several reasons, such as missing documentation, insufficient evidence of the veteran’s service-connected death, or errors in the application.

What should I do if my DIC claim has been denied?

If your claim is denied, don’t lose hope. You can appeal the decision. Work with a VA-accredited attorney at WHG to identify the issues with your claim, gather additional evidence, and build a stronger case for your appeal.

Can I claim DIC if I divorced my veteran spouse and remarried?

Generally, you are not eligible for DIC if you divorced your veteran spouse and later remarried. However, certain exceptions may apply if remarriage occurs after age 57 or is later annulled.

How long will my DIC claim take?

The timeline for DIC claims can vary. It often takes several months for the VA to process a claim or appeal, depending on the complexity and case backlog. Working with an VA benefits attorney can help expedite the process.

Can WHG assist with veterans benefits claims?

In addition to survivors and dependents, WHG is proud to advocate for veterans in the VA claims process.

VA Survivors and Dependents Assistance