What is the VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation program?

The VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) program is a financial benefit offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to survivors of veterans who are permanently disabled or have died from service-connected medical issues. This benefit is paid to the survivor of a veteran or service member who meets certain criteria and has a qualifying disability or death. To be eligible for DIC, the veteran must have died as a result of a service-connected disability, have been permanently and totally disabled due to a service-related condition at the time of death, or have died while on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training. The veteran must have served at least 90 days of active duty with at least one day during a period of war. In California, the surviving spouse of a veteran must already be receiving a VA pension or compensation and must have been married to the veteran for at least one year prior to the veteran’s death. Other exceptions include veterans who have died in service and surviving spouses and children of veterans who have permanent and total service-connected disability ratings. The benefit pays a tax-free, monthly amount to the surviving spouse, dependent children, or the parents (or surviving parent) of the veteran. The amount varies depending on the marital status of the survivor and whether or not there are any dependent children. The benefit is also payable to a former spouse if the marriage lasted at least 20 years and if the veteran has been discharged from service.

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What is the VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation program?

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