Family, caregivers, and survivors
How survivors can apply for DIC
DIC (Dependency and Indemnity Compensation) is a tax-free monthly payment for some surviving spouses, children, and parents of veterans and service members.
What you may need
- The veteran’s DD214
- The death certificate
- Your marriage or birth certificate
Steps
Step 1: Check if you may qualify
DIC may be paid if the death was in the line of duty, was caused by a service-connected condition, or the veteran was rated totally disabled for a set number of years.
Step 2: Fill out the form
Surviving spouses and children use VA Form 21P-534EZ. Parents use VA Form 21P-535.
Step 3: Get free help
A free VSO can help you file. Many help survivors every day.
Step 4: Ask about other survivor benefits
You may also qualify for health care (CHAMPVA), school benefits, and survivors pension.
If the veteran had a toxic exposure condition under the PACT Act, survivors may now qualify even if they were denied before.
Questions? Call the official line
VA benefits line: 800-827-1000Official sources
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