Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) for Surviving Spouses and Children

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Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) for Surviving Spouses and Children

DIC is a tax-free monthly benefit paid by the VA to eligible survivors of the following:
Photo credit Chris Benson. A young black man sitting on a bench embracing a young child

Summary

DIC is a tax-free monthly benefit paid by the VA to eligible survivors of the following:

  • a military service member who died while on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training;
  • a veteran whose death resulted from a service-related injury or disease;
  • a veteran whose death resulted from a non-service related injury or disease but who was receiving (or entitled to receive) VA compensation for service-related disability that was rated as totally disabling for a specified period of time.

The basic monthly rate of DIC is $1,283 for an eligible surviving spouse and is increased if there are dependent children or other special circumstances.  A spouse's Survivor Benefits Plan (SBP) annuity is reduced by any DIC amount received.

Learn more

Get more information about the DIC program, including how to apply.

Read more about a separate program helping parents who were financially dependent on the service member who died.

Special educational benefits are also available.

 

Last updated May 2018