100% P & T and DIC potential

Question:

I have reached 100% schedular rating, P&T. I am 58 years old. I have been advised by a VSO to continue submitting claims if they are warranted, since this could effect whether a veteran dies of a service connected condition (DIC potential). Seeking your opinion on this matter.

Jim's Reply:

The spouse of a veteran who dies of a service connected rated condition is eligible to apply for DIC. The spouse is also eligible for DIC if the 100% P & T veteran holds that rating for an uninterrupted 10 years and then dies of any cause. It depends on what your service connected ratings are whether you want to consider applying for anything else. If you're 100% rated for PTSD, you may want to consider filing for additional benefits because you aren't likely to die of PTSD. If your 100% rating has a disease like diabetes, you're likely to die of a heart attack or stroke, both secondary to the diabetes so the surviving spouse will be eligible for DIC. I don't suggest filing for additional benefits just for the heck of it...determine the necessity, make a plan so you prevail and go for it if needed.