What’s the difference between DIC and Survivors Pension?

DIC is for survivors when the veteran died in the line of duty or from a service-connected condition. Survivors Pension is needs-based for low-income survivors of wartime veterans.

How do I protect my effective date?

File as soon as possible. Your effective date determines how far back payments can go. You can file now and submit evidence as you gather it.

Where can I get free help with my application?

Use an accredited VSO via VA’s representative finder or contact a local Vet Center. They can help you apply and track your claim.

VA Survivor Benefits: 2025 Guide for Veterans’ Families

When a veteran passes away, their loved ones are often left not only grieving but also facing complex questions about financial support. The VA offers a range of survivor benefits designed to provide stability during these difficult times. This guide covers what families need to know in 2025, including eligibility, benefits, and how to apply.

👉 Download the 2025 Survivor Benefits Guide

Who Qualifies for VA Survivor Benefits?

VA survivor benefits are available to certain family members of deceased veterans, depending on service history and circumstances of death. Eligible groups include:

Surviving spouses – May qualify for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) or survivor pension.
Dependent children – Includes minors, students under age 26, or those permanently disabled before 18.
Dependent parents – In some cases, if financially dependent on the veteran.

Key VA Survivor Benefits in 2025

There are several types of survivor benefits available through the VA:

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): Monthly tax-free payments to eligible survivors of service-connected veterans.
Survivor’s Pension: Financial support for low-income surviving spouses and children of wartime veterans.
Education and Training: The Fry Scholarship and Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program provide educational funding.
Healthcare: CHAMPVA coverage for eligible spouses and children.
Burial Benefits: Includes burial allowance, headstone or marker, and access to national cemeteries.

How to Apply for Survivor Benefits

Applications can be submitted online through VA.gov, by mail, or with help from an accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO). Common forms include:

VA Form 21P-534EZ: For DIC, death pension, and accrued benefits.
VA Form 22-5490: For education benefits (DEA and Fry Scholarship).
VA Form 10-10d: For CHAMPVA healthcare benefits.

Submitting a complete application with all required documents (DD-214, marriage certificate, death certificate, etc.) can speed up processing time.

What’s New in 2025

Several updates in 2025 affect survivor benefits:

DIC Increase: Monthly payments adjusted for COLA, now starting at $1,612.75 for surviving spouses.
Education Benefits Expansion: Survivors using the Fry Scholarship may now access expanded housing stipends.
Streamlined Applications: VA.gov now allows digital submission of supporting documents directly with claims.