My veteran spouse just died. What should I do about VA benefits?
Last verified September 6, 2026 · Reviewed by Esteban Magallon, VA-Accredited Claims Agent
Details
- Report the death to VA by phone (1-800-827-1000), through a VA regional office, or when you file a survivor claim.
- Gather the death certificate, the veteran's DD-214, marriage certificate, and any VA claim or award correspondence.
- If the veteran had a claim pending at death, ask VA how that claim will be handled — substitution and accrued benefits have their own filing deadlines.
- Consider applying for DIC and/or Survivors Pension using VA Form 21P-534EZ if the facts may support eligibility.
- Do not spend any VA deposit received after the date of death until you understand how VA has characterized that payment.
- An accredited representative can help you sort out which benefits and deadlines apply to your situation.
Related
This is general educational information about VA claims — not legal or medical advice. Individual outcomes depend on the record. Oakridge Claims is a private VA-Accredited Claims Agent practice and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.