I'm rated at 80%, if I pass on will my wife be eligible to receive any benefits?

2023-05-11T11:01:39-04:00

Response by COL Randall C. made May 11 at 2023 11:05 AM

2023-05-11T11:05:49-04:00

The answer is "Maybe". The VA's site* for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) shows the eligibility requirements. She wouldn't get your entire disability pension, but she would get a benefit (again, if eligible).
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* https://www.va.gov/disability/dependency-indemnity-compensation/

About VA DIC for spouses, dependents, and parents | Veterans Affairs

If you’re the surviving spouse, child, or parent of a service member who died in the line of duty, or the survivor of a Veteran who died from a service-related injury or illness, you may be able to get a tax-free monetary benefit called VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (VA DIC). Find out if you can get VA benefits or compensation.

Response by SP5 Peter Keane made May 11 at 2023 12:10 PM

2023-05-11T12:10:06-04:00

DIC is only payable to surviving spouses if Veteran is rated at 100%. This also includes TDIU.. Other eligibility factors also come into play, but are moot if you don't meet the first.

Response by Amn Robert DiBerardino made Jul 1 at 2024 11:32 PM

2024-07-01T23:32:19-04:00

Unfortunately she will not. Based on VA law, which is most confusing, there could be the possibility DIC benefits.

Response by Cpl Rosemarie SantaAnna made Jul 19 at 2024 1:34 AM

2024-07-19T01:34:05-04:00

I was told “No” by men who at 100%…
But at 50% increases if prove married during Active duty (certificate)…

Response by SFC Joseph Behmke made Jul 23 at 2024 7:10 AM

2024-07-23T07:10:23-04:00

It is possible that she might qualify for some small amount. Did you opt in for the free Veterans Life Insurance when you got your 80% rating?

Response by CWO3 Robert Fong made Oct 31 at 2024 10:52 AM

2024-10-31T10:52:37-04:00

PO, what you are asking about is DIC "Dependent Indemnity Compe3nsation". The answer is yes if you pass away from a service connected disability that has already been adjudicated. The answer is No if you die from a non-service connected disability. However, there are exceptions to every rule; however, I wouldn't hold my breath.