Survivor Benefits

Dependents Indemnity Compensation (DIC)

Eligible survivors of veterans who pass away from a service-connected disability are eligible for DIC. This is a monetary benefit payable to the surviving spouse or dependent children of a veteran because their death was caused by their time in service. This benefit is also available to survivors of a veteran who had a service-connected disability rating of 100% for 10 years or longer, regardless of the cause of death.

Death Pension

Eligible survivors of veterans who served during a recognized time of war may qualify for a death pension benefit. The survivor must be low-income, as the benefit is income based. There may be additional amounts available to eligible survivors who are in need of the Aid and Attendance of another person for daily living needs (for example, in-home care or assisted living facility).

Burial in National Cemetery, Dependents Eligibility

Spouses and dependent children of eligible veterans may qualify for burial in a National Cemetery. This benefit includes all services provided on cemetery grounds:

• Plot or mausoleum placement
• Opening and closing of the grave
• Grave liner
• The headstone or marker

Burial Expenses Reimbursement

There may be reimbursement of burial expenses associated with the passing of a veteran who was receiving either pension or compensation benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) at the time of their passing. Whoever pays these final expenses may apply for a partial reimbursement. Amounts vary depending on the circumstances of the veteran's passing.