DIC and Survivor Benefits: What Surviving Spouses Are Owed

When a service-connected veteran dies, their surviving spouse and dependents don't lose access to VA benefits — they gain a different set. DIC (Dependency and Indemnity Compensation), CHAMPVA, and dozens of state survivor programs exist specifically for families in this situation. Many go unclaimed.

DIC: Dependency and Indemnity Compensation

DIC is a monthly tax-free payment to eligible surviving spouses. In 2025, the base rate is $1,562.74/month. Additional allowances apply if you have dependent children or if the veteran was rated 100% P&T for 8 or more years before death.

You may be eligible if the veteran died from a service-connected condition, OR if the veteran was continuously rated totally disabled for at least 10 years before death (or 5 years if from date of discharge).

CHAMPVA: Health Coverage for Dependents

CHAMPVA (Civilian Health and Medical Program of the VA) provides health insurance coverage for eligible surviving spouses and dependents of veterans who were permanently and totally disabled from service-connected conditions at time of death.

CHAMPVA covers most medical services and is often more comprehensive than commercial insurance. If you're not eligible for Medicare, CHAMPVA can fill that gap entirely.

State Survivor Benefits

Nearly every state has additional programs for surviving spouses — property tax exemptions that continue after the veteran's death, burial benefits, education waivers for children, and more. Use our Benefits Finder and select "Surviving Spouse" to see what your state offers.

Filing for DIC

File VA Form 21P-534EZ. You'll need the veteran's discharge documents, marriage certificate, and death certificate. If the death was not explicitly service-connected on the death certificate, you may need to submit a medical nexus — work with a VSO on this.