Dependent & Survivor Benefits
DIC, education, health care, and other benefits for the families of veterans.
Last updated August 2026. Source: VA.gov
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)
DIC is a tax-free monthly benefit for surviving spouses and dependent children of veterans who died from a service-connected disability or were rated totally disabled for a qualifying period.
The VA schedules it automatically after you file a claim
It is free to you
It can be in-person at a VA facility or with a contracted provider, or by telehealth
The examiner writes a report for the VA rater — you do not get a copy automatically
Education Benefits for Dependents (Chapter 35 / DEA)
Eligible spouses and children may receive education benefits for degree programs, certificates, apprenticeships, and job training, generally for up to 36 months.
Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship
For families of service members who died in the line of duty after September 10, 2001, the Fry Scholarship provides Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits at the 100% rate.
CHAMPVA Health Care for Dependents
CHAMPVA provides health care coverage for eligible spouses and children of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled or who died from a service-connected disability.
Accrued Benefits
Surviving spouses or dependent children may collect VA benefits owed to the veteran at the time of death, including pending claims, back pay, or appeal decisions.
The VA schedules it automatically after you file a claim
It is free to you
It can be in-person at a VA facility or with a contracted provider, or by telehealth
The examiner writes a report for the VA rater — you do not get a copy automatically
Burial and Memorial Benefits
Eligible families may receive burial allowances, a plot allowance, burial in a VA national cemetery, a headstone or marker, and a Presidential Memorial Certificate.