When talking about Veterans’ benefits, most people think of health care, disability compensation, or educational programs— and those are primarily for the Veteran. But what about benefits for surviving spouses, children, or parents? There are two main VA survivor benefits: Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) and Survivors Pension. This week, we’ll cover DIC, with Survivors Pension coming next.
What is DIC?
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation is a monthly, tax-free benefit paid to eligible survivors of Veterans who died in the line of duty or from a service-connected condition. For 2025, the basic monthly DIC rate for a surviving spouse is $1,653.07. Additional amounts may be added for dependent children, if the surviving spouse requires aid and attendance, or if the Veteran was rated 100% disabled for an extended period prior to death.
Who qualifies?
Generally, DIC is available to surviving spouses who were married to the Veteran:
At the time of death, or for at least one year prior to death, or if they had a child together.
Surviving children may qualify if they are unmarried and under age 18 (or 23 if attending school). In some cases, parents of deceased Veterans may also qualify if they meet income requirements.
Why it matters
It is important to understand that nearly all VA benefits are designed for Veterans. Survivor benefits are more limited, and the amounts may be significantly less than a Veteran receives— but DIC may be a lifelong benefit for eligible spouses. Once approved, it provides steady financial support and peace of mind.
A practical note
Families should report a Veteran’s death to VA as soon as possible to avoid overpayments and to begin the process of applying for survivor benefits. Your County Veterans Service Office (CVSO) can help navigate the paperwork.
DIC is not a replacement for everything a Veteran provided during their lifetime, but it does serve as a recognition of sacrifice and a measure of continued support to those left behind.
Upcoming Event:
Lake County Veterans (and spouses/ caregivers), join Operation Volunteers for Veterans on October 14th from 3:45 pm – 5:45 pm at the Silver Bay Library for a training and discussion session on how to create an ID.me and/or a Login.gov account. Treats will be provided. According to VA.gov website, access with a username/password will be removed after September 30, 2025. You’ll need an ID.me or Login.gov to access your online VA benefits (MyVA or My HealtheVet).
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
