If you’re the surviving child of a U.S. military Veteran who passed away due to service-related causes or while receiving VA disability compensation, you may be eligible for VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) benefits. These tax-free monthly payments aim to support dependent children who have lost a parent due to military service.
Eligibility Criteria for Surviving Children
To qualify for VA DIC benefits as a child, you must meet the following requirements:
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Unmarried Status: You must not be married.
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Age Requirements: One of these must apply:
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Under age 18.
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Under age 23 and enrolled in a VA-approved school program.
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Any age, but permanently unable to support yourself due to a disability that began before age 18 (referred to as a “helpless child”).
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Veteran’s Service Connection: The deceased Veteran must have:
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Died while on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive-duty training.
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Died from a service-connected illness or injury.
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Been eligible to receive VA compensation for a service-connected disability rated as totally disabling for a specified period before death.
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Benefit Amounts for Surviving Children
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As of December 1, 2024, the monthly DIC rates for surviving children are:
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Under age 18: $680.94.
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Under age 23 and attending school: $680.94.
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Helpless child (any age, permanently disabled before 18): $680.94.
Note: If there are multiple eligible children, the total monthly payment is divided among them. For example, if there are two eligible children, each would receive $489.79, totaling $979.58 per month. Additional amounts may be added if the Veteran had a total disability rating for a specified period before death.
How to Apply for DIC Benefits
You can apply for DIC benefits through the following methods:
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Online: Use the QuickSubmit tool via AccessVA to upload your application form.
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By Mail: Download and complete VA Form 21P-534EZ, then mail it to:
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In Person: Visit a VA regional office for assistance.
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With Help: Work with an accredited attorney, claims agent, or Veterans Service Organization (VSO) representative.
Note: Submitting an intent to file form before applying can help establish an earlier effective date for benefits, potentially allowing for retroactive payments.
Additional Support and Resources
Surviving children may also be eligible for other VA benefits, including:
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Health Care: Coverage through the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA).
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Education: Access to educational assistance programs.
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Bereavement Counseling: Services through VA Vet Centers.
For more information and assistance, visit the:
If you need further guidance or assistance with the application process, consider reaching out to a local Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or contacting the VA directly.
