top of page
Search

Understanding VA Dependent Benefits

Dependents of veterans who are receiving VA disability compensation or benefits may also be eligible for additional support through the Department of Veteran Affairs. Understanding what is available for spouses, children, and, in some cases, parents can help ease financial strain and provide long-term security for loved ones. The VA generally recognizes the following as dependents:


  • A spouse, including same-sex and common-law spouses (in states that recognize them)

  • Children under age 18, or up to 23 if attending school full-time

  • Disabled children of any age, if the disability began before the age 18

  • Dependent parents, if more than half of their financial support is provided by you


Benefits available for dependents:


  • Monthly compensation increases - Veterans with a disability rating of 30% or higher can receive additional monthly compensation for eligible dependents

  • CHAMPVA Health Care - The Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA) offers comprehensive health coverage to spouses and children if the veteran is permanently and totally disabled from a service-connected condition or is deceased due to a service-connected condition

  • Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA) - Chapter 35 - Eligible dependents may receive education and training benefits for college, vocational school, or on-the-job training; benefits can last up to 36 months and cover tuition, books, and housing

  • Survivors Pension - The Survivors Pension is a needs-based benefit for low-income, unremarried surviving spouses and children

  • DIC - Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) provides monthly tax-free payments to survivors of service members who died in the line of duty or from service-related conditions


Claims for dependent benefits may be submitted online through VA.gov. Help is also available from a Veterans Service Officer (VSO), who is trained to help navigate the process of filing a claim for free. VA dependent benefits can make a real difference in your family's stability and future. Whether it is health care, financial compensation, or education support, it is worth checking to see what you may qualify for.

bottom of page