Survivor benefits are VA-administered programs for financial assistance, healthcare, education benefits, and other forms of support to eligible family members of deceased veterans. These benefits may be available to surviving spouses, dependent children, and, in some cases, dependent parents. The specific benefits available depend on factors such as the veteran’s military service, discharge status, cause of death, combined disability rating at time of death, and the survivor’s relationship to the veteran.  

These programs are designed to offer ongoing assistance to ease the financial and personal challenges that may occur following the loss of a veteran. Some benefits are available when a veteran’s service-connected condition caused or contributed to their, or the veteran was rated at 100% combined disability rating for at least 10 years prior to death. Other benefits may be available to dependents based on the veteran’s wartime service, the dependent’s income limitations, or other eligibility requirements. Because each benefit program has its own rules and qualifications, it is important for family members to understand the available options and the evidence needed to support a claim.