When a service member dies while on active duty or from injuries or diseases incurred during service, their surviving family members are eligible for a range of benefits. The primary monetary benefit is Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), which provides a tax-free monthly payment to the surviving spouse and eligible children. The DIC rate for service-connected deaths is a flat rate with additional amounts for each dependent child and an additional transitional benefit for surviving spouses with children under age 18. In addition to DIC, the family may receive a death gratuity, which is a one-time lump sum payment made quickly after the service member passing. The family is also eligible for Servicemembers Group Life Insurance (SGLI) proceeds if the member was enrolled. Burial benefits are enhanced for active duty deaths, with VA covering the full cost of burial in a national cemetery and providing a burial allowance for those who choose private burial. Surviving spouses retain eligibility for certain military installation privileges and may be eligible for continued military health care through TRICARE for a specified period. Education benefits may transfer to dependents through the Survivors and Dependents Educational Assistance (DEA) program. The military casualty assistance officer assigned to the family can help navigate these benefits during an extremely difficult time.
Note: This article references sections of the VA's M21-1 Adjudication Procedures Manual. The VA periodically reorganizes the M21-1 and section numbers may have changed since this article was written. For the most current section references, visit the VA's public M21-1 Web Automated Reference Material System (WARMS).