The loss of a Veteran is a challenging time for any family, and amid the emotional toll, it’s important to know the range of benefits that may be available to surviving family members. The Social Security Administration and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) both offer several programs designed to support spouses, children, and even parents of deceased Veterans. These benefits can provide financial assistance, educational support, home loan options, and more.
Here’s an overview of key benefits available to Veteran family members, as well as eligibility criteria and application details.
Financial Support
The VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) benefit is one of the primary financial supports available for the family of a deceased Veteran. This monthly payment is typically offered to the surviving spouse, dependent children, or parents of the Veteran. Eligibility for DIC is generally based on the following circumstances:
- The Veteran passed away from a service-related illness or injury.
- The Veteran died while on active duty or in the line of duty.
DIC payments can help surviving family members manage daily expenses and maintain financial stability in the wake of a loved one’s passing.
Benefits
In addition to ongoing support through DIC, the VA may offer a one-time payment known as “accrued benefits.” This payment is available to eligible spouses, children, or parents of a deceased Veteran and is based on any benefits that the Veteran was entitled to receive before their passing but did not claim. Accrued benefits are intended to help family members receive any payments the Veteran would have received had they lived.
Memorial Services
The VA offers several benefits designed to assist with burial costs and to honor the memory of Veterans. Here’s a breakdown of what may be covered:
- Burial in a National Cemetery: Eligible Veterans may be buried in any of the VA’s National Cemeteries, where costs associated with grave opening and closing, perpetual care, and other burial services are covered.
- Headstone or Marker: The VA provides a government-issued headstone, marker, or medallion for placement at any burial site.
- Burial Flag: A U.S. flag may be provided to drape over the casket or accompany the urn.
- Presidential Memorial Certificate: This certificate, signed by the President, honors the deceased Veteran’s service.
- Additional Allowances: Some survivors may qualify for additional benefits, including a plot allowance, transportation allowance, or burial allowances to help with costs.
| Benefit Type | Details |
|---|---|
| National Cemetery Burial | Gravesite, grave opening/closing, and perpetual care at a national cemetery |
| Headstone, Marker, or Medallion | Government-provided for placement at any cemetery |
| Burial Flag | U.S. flag for casket or urn |
| Presidential Memorial Certificate | Signed certificate in honor of the Veteran’s service |
| Additional Burial Allowances | Plot and transportation allowances available to eligible survivors |
Educational Support
To support children and spouses with their educational goals, the VA offers scholarships and educational benefits:
- Fry Scholarship: This scholarship provides tuition, housing allowance, and textbook stipends for eligible children or spouses of a Veteran who died in the line of duty.
- Chapter 35 Benefits (Dependents’ Educational Assistance): Available for dependents of Veterans who died as a result of service-connected disabilities, this program provides up to 45 months of education benefits for approved education and training programs.
These educational benefits help surviving family members continue their academic journey and improve their long-term career prospects.
Health Care
The VA offers health care and additional support programs for surviving family members, designed to ensure their well-being and assist them in adjusting to life after a Veteran’s passing.
- Caregiver Support Program: This program provides support, resources, and even training for family members who acted as caregivers.
- Health Care: Some family members may qualify for health care benefits based on the circumstances of the Veteran’s service.
These programs offer emotional and practical assistance, recognizing the contributions of family members who supported the Veteran throughout their life and service.
Program
Surviving spouses of Veterans may be eligible for the VA’s Home Loan Guaranty Program, which helps with purchasing or refinancing a home. Benefits include competitive interest rates, no down payment, and no private mortgage insurance requirements. This program can help family members establish stable housing in the wake of the Veteran’s passing.
Payment
The VA ensures that the Veteran’s final monthly benefit payment reaches the surviving spouse to help cover immediate expenses. If the Veteran passed away before receiving this last payment, eligible survivors can apply to receive it. This benefit provides a short-term financial cushion for families coping with the sudden change in their household income.
How to Apply
For more information on each of these benefits and to apply, surviving family members can visit the Social Security and VA websites or reach out to their local VA office. The application process generally involves submitting proof of relationship to the Veteran, as well as documentation of the Veteran’s service and, in some cases, medical records.
The array of benefits provided by the Social Security Administration and VA offer crucial support during a difficult time, honoring the service and sacrifice of Veterans and providing their loved ones with financial stability and resources for the future.
FAQs
Who is eligible for VA DIC benefits?
Surviving spouse, children, or parents of the Veteran.
What is the Fry Scholarship?
A scholarship for dependents of Veterans who died in duty.
Can the final VA monthly payment go to family?
Yes, to the surviving spouse or eligible dependents.
Are burial costs covered for Veterans?
Yes, including gravesite, headstone, and more.
How can I apply for these benefits?
Visit the Social Security or VA website for application info.
