If you've lost a veteran loved one, we're here to help you navigate the benefits you've earned. From monthly payments to emotional support—know that you're not alone.
In the immediate aftermath of a loss, it can be hard to think clearly. Use this checklist to make sure you don't miss critical steps.
Call 1-800-827-1000 immediately. The VA will continue paying the veteran until they're notified of the death—resulting in an overpayment that you'll have to repay.
The Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD-214) is required for most survivor benefits. Check the veteran's important documents, military records, or request a copy from National Archives.
Request DD-214 OnlineTAPS provides 24/7 tragedy assistance and emotional support for anyone grieving a military loss. Their care team is available day or night.
Contact TAPS: 1-800-959-8273Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a tax-free monthly payment for surviving family members. Apply through VA.gov or with help from an accredited VSO.
Learn About DIC (Dependency & Indemnity Compensation) EligibilityDependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) provides monthly tax-free payments to surviving family members. Aid and Attendance adds extra support for those who need daily help.
DIC is a monthly, tax-free payment made to eligible surviving spouses, children, or dependent parents of service members who died in the line of duty—or of veterans whose death was related to a service-connected condition.
If the surviving spouse or veteran needs help with daily activities—like bathing, dressing, or eating—Aid and Attendance provides additional monthly compensation on top of the base DIC rate.
In addition to DIC, wartime veterans and their surviving spouses may qualify for the VA Improved Pension with Aid and Attendance. This is a separate benefit based on income and net worth—not service-connected death.
For survivors of service-connected deaths. Based on the veteran's service-connected disability rating at time of death. Tax-free monthly payment.
For wartime veterans/survivors with limited income who need daily assistance. Based on financial need and ability to perform daily activities.
You may qualify for BOTH programs if the veteran had service-connected conditions AND meets the pension income requirements.
Wartime veteran needing daily assistance
($27,804/year)
With one dependent spouse
($32,880/year)
Surviving spouse of one qualifying veteran
($18,696/year)
These are maximum MAPR (Maximum Annual Pension Rate) amounts. Your actual benefit is reduced by countable income.
Learn More About VA Pension A&AThese organizations exist to help you. Whether you need benefits guidance, emotional support, or state-level assistance—reach out. You don't have to navigate this alone.
The central hub for all federal survivor benefits. They provide guidance on DIC, education benefits, home loans, and other VA programs designed specifically for surviving family members of veterans.
Phone: 1-800-827-1000
TAPS provides 24/7 tragedy assistance and emotional support for anyone grieving a military loss. Their trained care team is available day or night—for surviving spouses, children, parents, or anyone affected.
Phone: 1-800-959-8273
America's Gold Star Families is a national nonprofit dedicated to supporting military families who have lost a loved one. They provide scholarships, advocacy, commemorative events, and peer support connecting families across the country.
Visit America's Gold Star FamiliesThe VA provides headstones, markers, and burial allowances for eligible veterans. Benefits include a free Government headstone, burial in a VA cemetery, and reimbursement for some burial costs.
Burial Allowance: Up to $2,000 for non-service-connected deaths
We know this page exists because you've lost someone precious—a veteran who served with honor and gave so much. There are no words that can ease that loss.
But we want you to know: the benefits your loved one earned are still available to you. The VA wasn't just there for them—it's here for you now. And organizations like TAPS, the Gold Star Family program, and the VA Office of Survivors Assistance exist because someone cared enough to build support for families like yours.
The benefits outlined here are not charity—they are compensation for service given. If your veteran earned them, you deserve them. We're here to help you claim what's yours.
Additional Resources
Need immediate help? Call 1-800-959-8273 (TAPS) or 1-800-827-1000 (VA Benefits)
