Family & Survivor Resources
Benefits Don't Stop at the Veteran.
Spouses, children, stepchildren, adopted children, dependent parents, and surviving family members may be entitled to significant VA benefits. This guide helps you understand who qualifies, what's available, and how to take action.
Education Resource — Always Verify Eligibility with VA.govStart Here — Family & Dependent Status
Before pursuing family-based VA benefits, veterans should verify that all eligible family members and dependents are correctly reflected in their VA records. Many benefits require the VA to have an official record of your dependents on file. Keeping this information current can directly affect your compensation rate and your family's access to benefits.
Spouse
A legally married spouse may qualify for added compensation, healthcare, and survivor benefits depending on the veteran's rating and status.
Child
Biological children under 18 (or under 23 if enrolled full-time in school) may qualify for added compensation and certain education benefits.
Stepchild
Stepchildren who are part of the veteran's household may qualify for certain VA benefits. Eligibility depends on the specific benefit and individual circumstances.
Adopted Child
Legally adopted children are generally recognized under VA dependency rules and may qualify for benefits similar to biological children.
Dependent Parent
Parents who are financially dependent on the veteran may qualify for additional VA compensation under specific criteria.
Surviving Spouse
A surviving spouse may be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), CHAMPVA, and other survivor benefits following the veteran's death.
Surviving Child
Surviving children of a deceased veteran may qualify for DIC, DEA education benefits, and other survivor programs.
Individual benefits have separate eligibility requirements and separate applications. Being listed as a dependent in VA records does not automatically qualify a family member for every benefit — each program has its own criteria.
Stepchildren & Adopted Children
STEPCHILDREN AND ADOPTED CHILDREN MAY QUALIFY FOR VA BENEFITS.
Qualifying stepchildren and adopted children can be recognized under VA dependency rules. When a stepchild or adopted child meets the VA's dependency criteria, they may be eligible for certain benefits — including added compensation for the veteran, CHAMPVA healthcare, and education programs like Chapter 35 DEA.
Eligibility is not automatic for every VA benefit. Each program has its own rules, and individual circumstances — including household status, legal relationship, and the specific benefit being applied for — all factor into the determination. Always verify eligibility directly with VA.gov or a VA-accredited representative.
CHAMPVA — Healthcare for Eligible Dependents
CHAMPVA (Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs) is a comprehensive healthcare benefit for eligible dependents and survivors of certain veterans. It covers the cost of most healthcare services and supplies that are medically necessary.
Who May Qualify
Spouse
The spouse of a veteran who is permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected condition, or the surviving spouse of a veteran who died from a service-connected condition or was rated P&T at the time of death.
Children
Unmarried children under 18, or under 23 if enrolled full-time in an accredited educational institution. Children who became permanently incapable of self-support before age 18 may qualify without an age limit.
Stepchildren & Adopted Children
Stepchildren and adopted children who meet the VA's dependency criteria may qualify for CHAMPVA when the veteran sponsor meets the eligibility requirements.
To apply for CHAMPVA, eligible family members submit VA Form 10-10d along with supporting documentation to the VA Health Administration Center. Applications are processed separately from the veteran's own VA healthcare enrollment.
CHAMPVA is not available to those eligible for TRICARE or Medicare Part A and Part B (with limited exceptions). Eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis.
Read the full VGS education on CHAMPVA eligibility, coverage, and how to apply
Official VA CHAMPVA program page, eligibility details, and application resources
Download and submit the official CHAMPVA application form
Chapter 35 DEA — Education Benefits for Dependents
The Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA) program — also known as Chapter 35 — provides education and training opportunities to eligible dependents of veterans who are permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected condition, or who died from a service-connected condition.
Who May Qualify
Spouse
The spouse of a qualifying veteran may use DEA benefits for education and training. Spouses generally have up to 20 years from the date of the veteran's qualifying disability rating or death to use the benefit.
Children
Biological, adopted, and stepchildren between the ages of 18 and 26 may be eligible. In some cases, the age limit may be extended for active-duty service members.
Stepchildren
Stepchildren who meet the VA's dependency criteria and age requirements may qualify for DEA benefits on the same basis as biological or adopted children.
Approved Education & Training Uses
- College or university degree programs
- Vocational and technical training
- Apprenticeships and on-the-job training
- Farm cooperative programs
- Special restorative training
- Special vocational training
DEA pays a monthly stipend directly to the student. Rates are set by Congress and adjusted periodically. Full-time enrollment receives the highest monthly rate; part-time enrollment is prorated. The benefit period is generally up to 45 months of full-time training.
Spouses must use DEA benefits within a specific time window from the date of the veteran's qualifying rating or death. Children must use benefits between ages 18 and 26. Time limits and exceptions vary — verify your specific window directly with VA.gov.
Eligible dependents apply using VA Form 22-5490 (Dependents' Application for VA Education Benefits). Applications can be submitted online through VA.gov or by mail to the VA regional processing office.
Read the full VGS education on Chapter 35 eligibility, rates, and how to apply
Official VA DEA program page with eligibility requirements and current rates
Download and submit the official DEA application form
Transferred Post-9/11 GI Bill
Eligible service members may be able to transfer unused Post-9/11 GI Bill education benefits to an eligible spouse or dependent children. This is one of the most significant education benefits available to military families — but it must be requested at the right time.
DO NOT WAIT UNTIL AFTER SEPARATION TO INVESTIGATE TRANSFERRING YOUR GI BILL.
Veterans generally cannot initiate a new transfer after leaving military service. If the required transfer was not completed while the service member was still eligible and serving, the opportunity may be permanently lost. Investigate and act before separation.
Key Points to Understand
DoD Approves the Transfer
The Department of Defense — not the VA — approves the transfer of Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits. The transfer request is submitted through the DoD milConnect system while the service member is still on active duty or in the Selected Reserve.
Service Requirements Apply
Transfer eligibility depends on meeting specific military service requirements. Service members must generally have completed a minimum period of service and agree to serve additional time as a condition of the transfer.
Must Be Requested While Serving
The transfer generally must be requested while the service member is still serving. Once separated from military service, a new transfer cannot typically be initiated.
DEERS Enrollment Required
Eligible dependents must be enrolled in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) before a transfer can be approved. Verify dependent enrollment in DEERS well in advance.
Up to 36 Months May Be Transferable
Up to 36 months of remaining Post-9/11 GI Bill entitlement may potentially be transferred to eligible dependents, subject to service requirements and approval.
Different Rules for Spouses vs. Children
Spouses and children have different rules governing when transferred benefits can be used. Spouses may generally use benefits immediately; children may have restrictions based on age and the service member's status. Verify the specific rules for each dependent.
Benefits May Help Cover
- Approved college and university programs
- Vocational and technical training
- Licensing and certification programs
- Monthly housing allowance (MHA)
- Books and supplies stipend
- Other eligible education expenses
Official VA information on transferring Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits to dependents
Official DoD portal where eligible service members submit transfer requests
Official VA page for current Post-9/11 GI Bill and education benefit payment rates
State Education Benefits for Veterans & Dependents
Federal VA education benefits are not the only education benefits that may be available to veterans and their families. Many states offer separate education programs for veterans, spouses, children, and other eligible dependents — and these state benefits can sometimes be used in addition to federal VA education benefits.
STATE EDUCATION BENEFITS ARE SEPARATE FROM FEDERAL VA EDUCATION BENEFITS.
Eligibility for state education benefits varies by state and may depend on residency, the veteran's disability rating, veteran status, the school's eligibility, or other state-specific requirements. Do not assume federal eligibility automatically qualifies a family member for state benefits.
State Programs May Include
- Tuition waivers
- Tuition exemptions
- Reduced tuition programs
- Scholarships
- Grants
- Benefits for spouses
- Benefits for children and dependents
- Benefits for dependents of disabled veterans
- Benefits for dependents of deceased veterans
To find state-specific education benefits, contact your official State Department of Veterans Affairs or State Veterans Agency directly. State programs vary significantly — your state veterans agency is the authoritative source for what is available in your state.
DIC — Dependency and Indemnity Compensation
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a tax-free monthly VA benefit that may be available to eligible surviving spouses, children, and parents of qualifying deceased service members or veterans. DIC is one of the most important survivor benefits available — and one of the most frequently misunderstood.
DIC IS NOT AUTOMATICALLY AWARDED JUST BECAUSE A VETERAN HAD A VA DISABILITY RATING.
DIC IS A SURVIVOR BENEFIT — DO NOT ASSUME YOUR FAMILY WILL AUTOMATICALLY RECEIVE IT.
DIC is not automatically awarded because a veteran had a VA disability rating. Survivors must apply, meet eligibility requirements, and provide supporting documentation. Veterans and families should keep important records organized now — before they are needed.
Who May Qualify
Surviving Spouse
The surviving spouse of a veteran who died from a service-connected illness or injury, or who was continuously rated totally disabled for a qualifying period before death. Remarriage may affect eligibility — verify current rules with VA.gov.
Surviving Children
Unmarried surviving children under age 18 (or under 23 if enrolled full-time in school) of a qualifying deceased veteran or service member may be eligible for DIC. Children who became permanently incapable of self-support before age 18 may qualify without an age limit.
Surviving Parents
In certain circumstances, surviving parents of a qualifying deceased service member or veteran may be eligible for a separate income-based DIC benefit. Eligibility depends on income and other factors.
Qualifying Circumstances
- Death from a service-connected illness or injury
- Death while on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training
- Veteran was rated totally disabled for at least 10 continuous years before death
- Veteran was rated totally disabled for at least 5 continuous years from date of discharge before death
- Veteran was a former prisoner of war rated totally disabled for at least 1 year before death
Additional DIC amounts may apply in qualifying circumstances — including when the surviving spouse needs aid and attendance, or when the surviving spouse has a service-connected disability. Current rates and additional amounts are published by the VA and adjusted periodically.
Remarriage may affect a surviving spouse's DIC eligibility. Rules regarding remarriage and DIC have changed over time. Verify current remarriage rules directly with VA.gov or a VA-accredited representative.
Survivors apply for DIC using VA Form 21P-534EZ (Application for DIC, Death Pension, and/or Accrued Benefits). Applications can be submitted online through VA.gov, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office.
Supporting documentation typically includes the veteran's discharge papers (DD-214), marriage certificate (for surviving spouses), birth certificates (for surviving children), death certificate, and medical evidence linking the cause of death to a service-connected condition where applicable. Keeping these records organized in advance can significantly reduce delays.
Veterans and families should keep important records organized now: marriage certificates, birth certificates, dependency records, military service records, disability rating decisions, and VA correspondence. Do not wait for a crisis to locate these documents.
Official VA DIC eligibility information for surviving spouses, children, and parents
Official VA guidance on applying for survivor benefits including DIC
Official VA page for current DIC monthly payment rates — rates are updated periodically
Official VA form for DIC, Death Pension, and Accrued Benefits applications
Survivors Pension
The VA Survivors Pension — sometimes called the Death Pension — is a needs-based, tax-free monthly benefit available to eligible surviving spouses and unmarried dependent children of deceased wartime veterans. Unlike DIC, Survivors Pension is not based on whether the veteran's death was service-connected. It is based on financial need.
SURVIVORS PENSION IS SEPARATE FROM DIC AND IS BASED ON FINANCIAL NEED — NOT SERVICE CONNECTION.
Many surviving families are unaware that Survivors Pension exists as a separate benefit from DIC. If a surviving spouse or child does not qualify for DIC, they may still qualify for Survivors Pension based on income and net worth. Both programs should be explored.
Who May Qualify
Surviving Spouse
The surviving spouse of a deceased wartime veteran who meets income and net worth limits set by Congress. The veteran must have served at least 90 days of active duty with at least one day during a wartime period, or have been discharged due to a service-connected disability.
Unmarried Dependent Children
Unmarried children of a deceased wartime veteran who are under age 18, or under age 23 if enrolled full-time in an approved school, or permanently incapable of self-support due to a disability that arose before age 18.
Recognized Wartime Periods
- World War II (December 7, 1941 – December 31, 1946)
- Korean Conflict (June 27, 1950 – January 31, 1955)
- Vietnam Era (February 28, 1961 – May 7, 1975 for veterans who served in the Republic of Vietnam; August 5, 1964 – May 7, 1975 otherwise)
- Gulf War (August 2, 1990 – a date to be set by law or Presidential Proclamation)
Survivors Pension is income-based. The VA compares the surviving family's countable income to the Maximum Annual Pension Rate (MAPR) set by Congress. If countable income is below the MAPR, the benefit may be payable. Net worth limits also apply. Current rates and limits are published by the VA and updated periodically.
Surviving spouses apply using VA Form 21P-534EZ (Application for DIC, Death Pension, and/or Accrued Benefits). This is the same form used for DIC — both benefits can be applied for simultaneously. Applications can be submitted online through VA.gov, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office.
Official VA Survivors Pension eligibility information and application guidance
Official VA page for current Survivors Pension maximum annual rates
Official VA form for DIC, Death Pension, and Accrued Benefits — covers both DIC and Survivors Pension
Aid & Attendance and Housebound Benefits
Aid & Attendance and Housebound are enhanced benefit amounts available to eligible veterans and surviving spouses who need help with daily activities or who are substantially confined to their home due to a permanent disability. These are not separate programs — they are additional amounts added on top of an existing VA pension or DIC benefit.
AID & ATTENDANCE AND HOUSEBOUND ARE ADDITIONAL AMOUNTS — NOT SEPARATE PROGRAMS.
To receive Aid & Attendance or Housebound benefits, a veteran or surviving spouse must first be eligible for VA Pension or DIC. These enhanced amounts are then added to the base benefit for those who meet the additional criteria.
Who May Qualify
Veterans Receiving VA Pension
Veterans receiving VA Pension who need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, or attending to the needs of nature, or who are bedridden, in a nursing home, or have limited eyesight, may qualify for Aid & Attendance.
Surviving Spouses Receiving DIC or Pension
Surviving spouses who receive DIC or Survivors Pension and meet the Aid & Attendance or Housebound criteria may qualify for the enhanced benefit amount.
Housebound Criteria
Veterans or surviving spouses who are substantially confined to their immediate premises due to a permanent disability — even if they can leave for medical appointments — may qualify for the Housebound benefit amount instead of Aid & Attendance.
Aid & Attendance and Housebound cannot be received simultaneously. The VA will grant the higher of the two amounts for which the claimant qualifies. These benefits require a separate application and supporting medical documentation.
Apply by submitting VA Form 21-2680 (Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance) along with a statement from a physician or authorized medical professional. Submit with the underlying pension or DIC application, or separately if already receiving those benefits.
Caregiver Support Program (PCAFC)
The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) provides support, resources, and financial assistance to eligible caregivers of eligible post-9/11 veterans and service members. If you are caring for a veteran with a serious injury or illness incurred or aggravated in the line of duty on or after September 11, 2001, you may be eligible for significant caregiver support.
CAREGIVERS OF ELIGIBLE VETERANS MAY QUALIFY FOR MONTHLY STIPENDS, HEALTHCARE, AND MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT.
The PCAFC program is one of the most comprehensive caregiver support programs available — but it requires a separate application and is not automatically provided. Eligible caregivers who do not apply may be leaving significant support on the table.
Benefits Available Through PCAFC
- Monthly caregiver stipend (based on the level of care provided)
- Health insurance through CHAMPVA (if the caregiver is not already covered)
- Mental health counseling and services
- Respite care (temporary relief from caregiving duties)
- Caregiver education and training
- Travel and lodging benefits for certain VA appointments
The veteran must have a serious injury or illness incurred or aggravated in the line of duty on or after September 11, 2001, and must need personal care services due to an inability to perform one or more activities of daily living, or need supervision or protection based on symptoms or residuals of neurological or other impairment. The caregiver must be at least 18 years old and be a family member or someone who lives with the veteran.
The Program of General Caregiver Support Services (PGCSS) is a separate, less intensive program available to caregivers of veterans of all eras. It provides education, peer support, and referrals but does not include the financial benefits of PCAFC.
Official VA PCAFC program page with eligibility requirements and application information
Official VA Caregiver Support Program website with resources, tools, and support contacts
Official VA application form for the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers
VA Home Loan — Surviving Spouse Eligibility
The VA Home Loan benefit is not limited to veterans. Eligible surviving spouses of veterans may also qualify to use the VA Home Loan benefit — including the ability to purchase a home with no down payment, no private mortgage insurance (PMI), and competitive interest rates.
ELIGIBLE SURVIVING SPOUSES MAY USE THE VA HOME LOAN BENEFIT.
Many surviving spouses are unaware that they may independently qualify for a VA-backed home loan. This benefit can provide significant financial advantages when purchasing or refinancing a home.
Who May Qualify
Surviving Spouse of a Veteran Who Died in Service or from a Service-Connected Disability
The surviving spouse of a veteran who died while on active duty or as a result of a service-connected disability may be eligible for the VA Home Loan benefit, provided the surviving spouse has not remarried (with limited exceptions).
Surviving Spouse of a Veteran Rated Totally Disabled
The surviving spouse of a veteran who was continuously rated totally disabled for a qualifying period before death may also be eligible. Verify current eligibility requirements with VA.gov.
Surviving Spouse Who Has Remarried
Remarriage generally affects VA Home Loan eligibility for surviving spouses. However, there are exceptions — including surviving spouses who remarried after age 57 or after December 16, 2003. Verify current rules with VA.gov or a VA-approved lender.
Key Loan Benefits
- No down payment required (in most cases)
- No private mortgage insurance (PMI)
- Competitive interest rates
- Limited closing costs
- No prepayment penalty
- Reusable benefit (may be used more than once in qualifying circumstances)
To use the VA Home Loan benefit, a surviving spouse must obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA. The COE verifies eligibility to a VA-approved lender. Applications for the COE can be submitted online through VA.gov, through a VA-approved lender, or by mail.
Burial & Memorial Benefits
The VA provides burial and memorial benefits to honor eligible veterans and, in some cases, their eligible dependents. These benefits help ensure that veterans receive a dignified burial and that their service is recognized. Families should be aware of what is available — and that some benefits require advance planning or timely application.
SOME BURIAL BENEFITS REQUIRE ADVANCE PLANNING OR TIMELY APPLICATION AFTER DEATH.
Burial allowances and certain benefits have application deadlines. Families who are unaware of these programs may miss the window to apply. Veterans and families should review available burial benefits in advance.
Available Burial & Memorial Benefits
Burial Allowance
The VA may pay a burial allowance to help cover burial and funeral expenses for eligible veterans. The amount varies depending on whether the death was service-connected and other factors. Application must generally be filed within 2 years of the veteran's burial.
National Cemetery Burial
Eligible veterans may be buried in a VA national cemetery at no cost to the family. This includes the opening and closing of the grave, a burial liner, a government headstone or marker, and perpetual care of the gravesite.
Presidential Memorial Certificate
Eligible veterans and their families may receive a Presidential Memorial Certificate — an engraved paper certificate signed by the President — as an expression of the nation's gratitude for the veteran's service.
Government Headstone or Marker
The VA provides a government headstone, marker, or medallion at no cost for eligible veterans buried in any cemetery — national, state veterans, tribal, or private. This benefit is available regardless of where the veteran is buried.
Burial Flag
An American flag is provided at no cost to drape the casket or accompany the urn of an eligible veteran. After the funeral, the flag is typically presented to the next of kin as a keepsake.
Burial of Eligible Dependents
Spouses and dependent children of veterans buried in a VA national cemetery may also be eligible for burial in the same cemetery. Eligibility and space availability vary by cemetery.
Pre-need eligibility determination allows eligible individuals to apply for burial in a VA national cemetery before death. This can simplify the process for families during a difficult time. Contact the National Cemetery Scheduling Office or visit VA.gov to learn more.
Official VA overview of burial and memorial benefits available to eligible veterans and families
Official VA information on burial allowance eligibility and how to apply
Schedule a burial in a VA national cemetery or apply for pre-need eligibility determination
Official VA information on government headstones, markers, and medallions for eligible veterans
Accrued Benefits
When a veteran dies while a VA claim or appeal is pending — or while receiving VA benefits — there may be unpaid benefits owed to the veteran at the time of death. These are called accrued benefits. Eligible survivors may be able to claim these unpaid amounts.
IF A VETERAN DIES WITH A PENDING CLAIM OR UNPAID BENEFITS, SURVIVORS MAY BE ABLE TO CLAIM WHAT WAS OWED.
Accrued benefits are often overlooked. If a veteran passed away while waiting for a VA decision, or while receiving benefits that were not fully paid, eligible survivors should investigate whether accrued benefits are available. There are strict time limits for filing.
Who May Qualify
Surviving Spouse
The surviving spouse of a deceased veteran is generally the first eligible claimant for accrued benefits. The surviving spouse must file a claim within one year of the veteran's death.
Surviving Children
If there is no surviving spouse, or if the surviving spouse does not file a timely claim, surviving children may be eligible to claim accrued benefits.
Surviving Parents
If there is no surviving spouse or children, surviving parents may be eligible to claim accrued benefits in certain circumstances.
What May Be Available
- Unpaid disability compensation owed to the veteran at the time of death
- Benefits from a pending claim that was decided in the veteran's favor after death
- Benefits from a pending appeal that was resolved after death
- Pension benefits owed but not paid before death
Accrued benefit claims must generally be filed within one year of the veteran's death. Missing this deadline may result in the loss of the right to claim these benefits. If a veteran passed away recently with a pending claim or unpaid benefits, contact the VA or a VA-accredited representative promptly.
Where to Get Help
Navigating VA family and survivor benefits can be complex. You do not have to do it alone. Free assistance is available from VA-accredited representatives, Veterans Service Organizations, and official VA resources. The following organizations and resources can help veterans, families, and survivors understand their options and navigate the claims process.
FREE ASSISTANCE IS AVAILABLE — YOU DO NOT HAVE TO NAVIGATE THIS ALONE.
VA-accredited claims agents, attorneys, and Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representatives are authorized to assist veterans and survivors with VA claims at no charge for representation. Be cautious of any person or company that charges upfront fees to help with a VA claim.
Sources of Free Assistance
Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs)
VSOs such as the American Legion, VFW, DAV, AMVETS, and many others provide free claims assistance to veterans and survivors. VSO representatives are VA-accredited and can help with applications, appeals, and benefit navigation.
VA-Accredited Claims Agents and Attorneys
VA-accredited claims agents and attorneys are authorized to represent veterans and survivors before the VA. They may charge fees for representation at the Board of Veterans' Appeals level and above, but initial consultations are often free.
State Veterans Agencies
Each state has a Department of Veterans Affairs or Veterans Agency that provides free assistance to veterans and their families. State veterans agencies can help with both federal VA benefits and state-specific programs.
VA Regional Offices
VA Regional Offices provide in-person assistance with VA claims and benefits. Veterans and survivors can visit a regional office to speak with VA staff, submit documents, or get help with applications.
VA Benefits Hotline
The VA Benefits Hotline (1-800-827-1000) provides telephone assistance for veterans and survivors with questions about VA benefits, claims status, and eligibility.
Be cautious of companies or individuals who charge upfront fees to help with VA claims. VA-accredited representatives are prohibited from charging fees for initial claims assistance. If someone asks for money upfront to help with a VA claim, contact the VA Office of General Counsel.
Official VA tool to find a VA-accredited VSO, claims agent, or attorney near you
Official VA directory of State Departments of Veterans Affairs
Call the VA Benefits Hotline or use VA.gov contact options for assistance with benefits questions
Official VA overview of all benefits available to family members and survivors
Questions About Family Benefits?
Navigating VA family and survivor benefits can be complex. Reach out to VGS for personalized guidance — or connect with a VA-accredited representative for official assistance.