Survivor Benefits Beyond DIC
Survivors Pension
A needs-based monthly benefit for low-income surviving spouses and unmarried children of wartime veterans. Income and net-worth limits apply, and Aid & Attendance / Housebound rates can increase the payment when the survivor needs daily aid.
Accrued benefits
If a had a or award at the time of death, certain survivors may be eligible to receive amounts that were due to the veteran but unpaid. Accrued-benefits claims are time-sensitive and generally must be filed within one year of the veteran's death.
CHAMPVA
The Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs () provides health-care coverage to certain survivors and dependents of veterans who are permanently and totally service-connected disabled or who died of a service-connected condition.
Burial and memorial benefits
- and (amount depends on whether the death was service-connected).
- Government-furnished headstone, marker, or medallion.
- Presidential Memorial Certificate.
- U.S. burial flag and military funeral honors (request through ).
- Burial in a VA national cemetery for the and eligible family members.
Home loan eligibility for surviving spouses
A of a whose death was service-connected, or who was rated permanently and totally service-connected disabled, may qualify for the VA-guaranteed home loan benefit. Apply through VA Form 26-1817.
Frequently Asked Questions
Useful Tools & Topics
Have questions about your specific case?
Every veteran's facts are different. A free initial consultation with a VA-Accredited Claims Agent can tell you whether your matter is a fit for representation — and what the right next step looks like either way.
Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Oakridge Claims is a private business and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. No guarantees of outcomes are made. Each claim is decided on its individual facts.
Related guides
Burial & Memorial Benefits
VA burial allowance, plot allowance, headstones and markers, Presidential Memorial Certificate, burial flag, and national cemetery eligibility.
VA Benefits for Spouses of Disabled Veterans
Spouse benefits at a glance — dependency added to compensation, CHAMPVA, Chapter 35 DEA, caregiver stipend under PCAFC, DIC, and survivor pension. Eligibility rules and how to apply.
CRSC vs. CRDP
Combat-Related Special Compensation vs. Concurrent Retirement Disability Pay — eligibility and which to choose.
CRSC vs. CRDP — Concurrent Receipt Explained
Side-by-side comparison of Combat-Related Special Compensation and Concurrent Retirement and Disability Pay — eligibility, taxability, and how to choose during open season.