2025: VA DIC for Spouses, Dependents and Parents

Surviving family members of some deceased service members and disabled veterans may qualify for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC). The amount of benefits a DIC recipient gets increased slightly in 2025. Here’s what you need to know about who qualifies and what benefits may be available.

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Who Gets DIC Benefits?

Surviving dependent spouses, children and parents may qualify for DIC benefits if the deceased:

Died in the line of duty during military service
Died of a service-connected condition
Had a VA disability rating of 100% or TDIU for a certain time period prior to their death

The required timelines are different depending on both the veteran’s qualification type and the type of dependent. For example, a surviving spouse is eligible only if they either lived with the veteran until their death or any separation was not their fault, and must also meet criteria relating to when they were married, how long they were married, or whether they had children with the servicemember or veteran.

Determining whether the criteria are met and what type of proof will be required can be complicated. An experienced VA disability benefits advocate can help you determine whether you qualify for DIC benefits and how to pursue them.

Call 1-888-373-4722 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form

What Benefits are Available Under the DIC Program?

The amount of compensation a dependent may receive can also be complicated. For example, the base compensation rate for a dependent spouse in 2025 is $1,653.07/month. However, the spouse may receive more if they were married to the veteran for at least eight years leading up to their death, and the veteran was rated totally disabled during those eight years.

The DIC benefit may also be increased if:

There are minor children
The surviving spouse is housebound
The surviving spouse required aid and attendance

Adult children may receive DIC benefits if they are between the ages of 18 and 23 and are enrolled in a qualifying school program. The base amount is $346.95/month if there is also an eligible surviving spouse. However, the benefits allocated among qualifying adult children are increased if there is no surviving spouse collecting benefits.

Benefits for dependent parents are calculated differently, and are available only to parents with very limited income. If only one parent is alive, benefits drop to $5/month if the parent has an annual income of $10,975 or more. If both parents are alive, benefits taper off at even lower income levels.

Pursuing DIC Benefits

As you can see, eligibility for DIC benefits and the amount of benefits available can be confusing. The best way to ensure that you understand what benefits you qualify for and how to apply successfully is to work with a seasoned VA disability benefits advocate. To learn more, call us at 888-373-4722 or click here to contact us today.

Call 1-888-373-4722 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form