What is DIC?

In addition to awarding disability compensation the VA will also award certain family members DIC benefits. This is another program administered by the VA for the benefit of the veteran and the veteran’s family. Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a tax free monetary benefit paid to eligible survivors of military Service members who died in the line of duty or eligible survivors of Veterans whose death resulted from a service-related injury or disease. To qualify one must be a surviving spouse or child. To qualify for DIC, a surviving spouse must meet the requirements below.

1. Married to a Service Member who died on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training, OR
2. Validly married the Veteran before January 1, 1957, OR
3. Married the Veteran within 15 years of discharge from the period of military service in which the disease or injury that caused the Veteran’s death began or was aggravated, OR
4. Was married to the Veteran for at least one year, OR
5. Had a child with the Veteran, AND
6. Cohabited with the Veteran continuously until the Veteran’s death or, if separated, was not at fault for the separation, AND
7. Is not currently remarried

DIC benefits are a great opportunity for family members to get monetary compensation for the in service disabilities suffered by a spouse. Of course, the key to winning DIC benefits is in the medical evidence. That is why you need the expertise that Vet Defender can provide for you. To schedule a time to talk with a Vet Defender click this link: Schedule an Appointment.