Maximizing Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) Benefits

Maximizing Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) Benefits

Written by Caroline Temple, Senior Advocate

At Veterans Help Group, one of the most common concerns we hear from veterans is: “Will my family be taken care of when I’m gone?” It’s a deeply personal and important question, and the answer is, there are benefits available to support surviving family members of veterans.

One of the most impactful programs available is VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC). DIC is a tax-free, monthly benefit paid to eligible survivors of veterans who died from a service-connected injury or illness, or in some cases, from unrelated causes while rated as totally disabled.

What Is Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)?

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a monthly benefit currently set at $1,653.07 (2025 base rate), with potential increases depending on your family’s circumstances (such as dependent children, housebound status, or Aid & Attendance needs).

It’s one of the few benefits that provides long-term financial security to a veteran’s family, and yet many don’t know they’re eligible.

Who Qualifies for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)?

To receive DIC, the person applying must fall into one of these categories:

• Surviving Spouse
• Dependent Children (usually minors)
• Dependent Parents

For surviving spouses, eligibility is also affected by:

• Length of the marriage
• Cohabitation at time of death
• Date of marriage in relation to the veteran’s service

When Is a Family Eligible for DIC?

Eligibility for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) can be established in a few key ways:

1. Service-Connected Death

If the veteran’s death was caused by or contributed to by a service-connected disability, the VA may award DIC. The cause of death listed on the death certificate, supported by medical opinions or autopsy findings, plays a major role.

Even if the VA didn’t previously award service connection for the condition before death, families can still apply if they believe the death was related to service.

2. Death While on Active Duty

If a veteran dies while serving on active duty, their family may automatically be eligible for DIC benefits.

3. Veteran Was Rated Totally Disabled Before Death

Even if the death wasn’t directly related to service, dependents may qualify if the veteran had been rated 100% disabled for a certain period before passing.

Don’t Forget: Other Available Benefits

Along with DIC, surviving family members may also be eligible for:

• Burial Benefits
• Accrued Benefits (unpaid amounts the veteran was entitled to before passing)

These claims can be filed at any time after a veteran’s death, and navigating the process can be complex. That’s where we come in.

We’re Here to Help

Whether you’re a surviving spouse, child, or parent, we know how important it is to protect your family’s future. At Veterans Help Group, our team is experienced in handling DIC claims and the other benefits your family may be entitled to. Contact us here or call us today at (800) 800-3332.

This article was written and reviewed by Caroline Temple, Senior Advocate at Veterans Help Group. Caroline has helped numerous families navigate DIC and survivor claims with care and accuracy.

Learn More About VA Disability Below:

• How To Speed Up Your VA Disability Claim
• How To Apply For VA Disability Benefits
• SSD For Veterans