I am the widow/surviving spouse of a veteran. Am I entitled to any benefits?
Answer
VA offers benefits for survivors:
1. Dependency Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is generally payable to survivors of veterans who die from service-related causes.
2. If the veteran dies from a disease or disability that is not related to military service, death pension is payable to the survivors provided the veteran had qualifying military service and the survivor meets certain income requirements. An additonal benefit may be payable for eligible survivors who are in need of aid and attendence for their personal maintainence, or who are permanently housebound.
3. Some surviving spouses may be also entitled to education and training benefits, VA medical care and home loan guaranty benefits.
You can find more detailed information on the web in the VA publication, Federal Benefits for Veterans and Dependents. The web address for the guide is http://www1.va.gov/opa/vadocs/current_benefits.asp.
You may also contact a benefits counselor via telephone at: 1-800-827-1000.
Or, you may ask your benefits questions by clicking on the "Ask a Question" tab at the top of this response.
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