As a widow or widower of a deceased veteran, you may be eligible for various benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and other organizations. These benefits acknowledge the sacrifices made by your late spouse and provide support to help you navigate the challenges of losing a loved one. Here, we’ll outline the benefits you may be eligible for as a widow of a deceased veteran. Note that in this article we refer to widows, however the benefits are identical for widowers.
Benefits Eligible For A Widow Of A Deceased Veteran
Financial Benefits
- Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): Monthly payment to compensate for loss of veteran’s income
Eligibility: Married to veteran at time of death, and either:
- Veteran died in service
- Veteran died from service-connected disability
- Veteran was totally disabled from service-connected disability at time of death
- Survivor’s Pension: Tax-free monthly payment for eligible widows with limited income
Eligibility: Married to veteran at time of death, and:
- Veteran had at least 90 days of active duty service
- Widow meets income and net worth requirements
- Death Gratuity: One-time payment of $100,000 to help with funeral expenses and other needs
Eligibility: Veteran died in service or from service-connected disability
Healthcare Benefits
- CHAMPVA: Comprehensive health insurance for eligible widows and their children
Eligibility: Married to veteran at time of death, and:
- Veteran was totally disabled from service-connected disability at time of death
- Widow and children meet eligibility requirements
- TRICARE: Continued health coverage for widows and children under certain circumstances
Eligibility: Dependent on veteran’s military status and circumstances of death
Education Benefits
- Dependents’ Educational Assistance
- Education and training assistance for widows and children
Eligibility: Married to veteran at time of death, and:
- Veteran died in service or from service-connected disability
- Widow or child meets eligibility requirements
- Transfer of Entitlement: Transfer of unused education benefits to widows and children.
Eligibility: Dependent on veteran’s military status and circumstances of death
Employment Benefits
- Veterans’ Employment and Training Service
- Assistance in finding employment and career counseling
Eligibility: Married to veteran at time of death
- Preference in hiring for federal jobs
Eligibility: Married to veteran at time of death
Other Benefits
- Burial benefits
- Gravesite in a national cemetery
Eligibility: Veteran died in service or from service-connected disability
- Home loan guarantees and adaptations: Assistance in obtaining home loan or adapting home to meet needs
Eligibility: Married to veteran at time of death
- Social Security benefits: Potential eligibility based on veteran’s work history.
Eligibility: Dependent on veteran’s work history and circumstances of death
- State and local benefits: Various benefits offered by states and local governments.
Eligibility: Dependent on state and local requirements
Application
To apply for these benefits, the widow should gather necessary documents, including:
- Veteran’s military records
- Marriage certificate
- Proof of income
- Death certificate
They can then:
- Apply online through the VA’s website
- Visit a local VA office
- Call the VA’s benefits hotline at 1-800-827-1000
It’s important to note that each benefit has its own eligibility requirements and application process. The widow may want to consider seeking the help of a veterans’ service organization or a qualified attorney to ensure she receives all the benefits they are eligible for.
In addition to these benefits, the widow may also be eligible for other forms of support, such as:
- Counseling services
- Home health care
- Respite care
- Long-term care
These services can help them cope with the loss of her loved one and manage the challenges of daily life.
A Widow’s Benefits from the VA
The widow of a deceased veteran is eligible for a range of benefits and support services. By understanding what’s available and reaching out for help, they can navigate the difficult time following their loved one’s passing and build a brighter future.
