If you’re a surviving spouse of a veteran, it’s crucial to understand which VA benefits you may be entitled to. Many miss out on important support like Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) payments, education assistance, and housing loans. This guide explains your rights and how to claim what you’re owed.
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a tax-free monetary benefit paid to eligible surviving spouses, children, and parents of deceased veterans. To qualify, the veteran’s death must be due to a service-related injury or disease, or the veteran must have been totally disabled due to a service-connected disability for a specified period before death. Benefits for surviving spouses include a monthly payment, which may be supplemented based on the surviving spouse’s needs. To apply, you’ll typically need the veteran’s death certificate, marriage certificate, and evidence of the veteran’s service-connected disability. Submit these documents along with VA Form 21-534, Application for DIC, Death Pension, and/or Accrued Benefits, to your nearest VA office or online through the VA website.
Explore valuable offers and resources available to military spouses seeking VA support and benefits.
The Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program, also known as Chapter 35, offers educational benefits to eligible dependents of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition or who died while on active duty or as a result of a service-connected disability. Eligible spouses can receive financial assistance for degree and certificate programs, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training. The program covers tuition, fees, books, and supplies. To apply, you must complete VA Form 22-5490, Application for Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance. Ensure you have the veteran’s service records and proof of your relationship to the veteran when applying. This benefit provides significant support for military spouses seeking to further their education or career skills.
Surviving spouses of veterans may be eligible for VA-backed home loan benefits, offering advantages such as no down payment, no private mortgage insurance (PMI), and competitive interest rates. Eligibility generally requires that the veteran died in service or from a service-connected disability. The surviving spouse must also be deemed creditworthy and have a valid Certificate of Eligibility (COE). To apply, gather the veteran’s service records, death certificate, and your marriage certificate. Submit these documents along with VA Form 26-1817, Request for Determination of Loan Guaranty Eligibility, to your local VA office. These loans can make homeownership more accessible and affordable for surviving spouses.
Beyond DIC payments, education assistance, and housing loans, several other VA benefits are available to surviving spouses. These include healthcare benefits through the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA), which helps cover the cost of medical care. Burial benefits include assistance with burial expenses and access to national cemeteries. Surviving spouses may also be eligible for counseling services to help cope with grief and loss. Additionally, some states offer property tax exemptions to surviving spouses of veterans. It’s important to explore all available benefits to ensure you receive the support you deserve.
Navigating the VA claims process can be complex, but careful preparation can increase your chances of success. Start by gathering all necessary documents, including the veteran’s service records, death certificate, and marriage certificate. Complete the appropriate VA forms accurately and submit them to your regional VA office or online. Common mistakes include incomplete applications and failure to provide sufficient evidence. If you need help, consider contacting a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or a VA-accredited attorney. These professionals can provide guidance and advocacy throughout the claims process, ensuring you receive the benefits you are entitled to.
Numerous organizations and support groups are dedicated to assisting military spouses. These resources offer a range of services, including legal advice, financial counseling, and emotional support. Organizations like the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) and the Gold Star Wives of America provide community and advocacy for surviving spouses. Additionally, the Department of Veterans Affairs offers resources and support through its various programs. Connecting with these resources can provide valuable assistance, helping you navigate the challenges and access the benefits available to you.