DIC Survivor Benefits for Spouses of Deceased Veterans

What Is DIC?

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a monthly, tax-free monetary benefit paid by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to eligible survivors of certain deceased veterans. DIC is paid to an eligible surviving spouse, child, or parent of:

• A service member who died in the line of duty on or after September 11, 2001.
• A service member who died in the line of duty before September 11, 2001 (under certain conditions).
• A veteran whose death resulted from a service-related injury or disease.
• A veteran who was rated permanently and totally disabled by the VA at the time of death (under certain conditions).

Who May Be Eligible?

A surviving spouse may qualify if they:

• Married the veteran before January 1, 1957, OR were married to the veteran for at least one year, OR had a child with the veteran.
• Were living with the veteran at the time of death, or were separated but not at fault for the separation.
• Have not remarried before age 57 (or met other specific remarriage conditions).

How to Apply for DIC

The VA encourages survivors to work with a VA-accredited representative, such as a Veterans Service Organization (VSO), who can help file a DIC claim at no cost. You can also apply directly through the VA.

DIC vs. Private Life Insurance

DIC is a government benefit paid to eligible survivors of service members and veterans. It is separate from privately issued life insurance, which is a commercial product purchased through a licensed agent. Some families choose to explore private life insurance to supplement government benefits and help cover additional expenses such as final costs, mortgage obligations, or income replacement.