When a service member leaves the military, their family might qualify for a range of VA benefits. Undoubtedly, the effort made by service members and their loved ones must be compensated.
Navigating these benefits is crucial for spouses who might be unfamiliar with the process. The VA offers several significant benefits to spouses of veterans, covering areas such as health care, education, and financial needs.
Health Care
Spouses of veterans who have died due to a service-connected disability or who were rated as permanently and totally disabled at the time of their death might qualify for the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA). This program covers a broad range of medical services, including:
- Inpatient and outpatient care
- Mental health services
- Prescription medications
Understanding and utilizing these health care benefits can provide crucial support for the spouses of veterans, ensuring they receive the care they need and deserve.
If you are eligible for TRICARE, you will not qualify for CHAMPVA.
However, there are numerous other benefits available to spouses and children of veterans. Let’s explore some of these valuable programs.
Education
Spouses and children of veterans who passed away during active duty or due to service-connected injuries may be eligible for various educational benefits.
These programs are designed to support your educational and career aspirations.
The Fry Scholarship
The Fry Scholarship offers Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits for up to 36 months of schooling. This scholarship can significantly reduce the financial burden of pursuing higher education.
Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA)
The DEA program provides support for education and training for surviving spouses and children. Whether you’re aiming for a degree or vocational training, this program can help you achieve your goals.
Montgomery GI Bill Death Benefit
If the veteran was entitled to the Montgomery GI Bill at the time of their death, the Death Benefit can be utilized to further your education. This benefit ensures that the veteran’s educational legacy continues through their loved ones.
Financial Support
In addition to educational benefits, there are also financial support programs available for surviving family members.
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a monthly benefit paid to the surviving spouse, children, or parents of a veteran who passed away due to a service-related condition.
This compensation provides essential financial assistance during a challenging time. These benefits are designed to honor the sacrifices made by veterans and their families. By taking advantage of these programs, you can pursue education and receive financial support to help secure a brighter future.
Other Support
If you are the spouse of a veteran, you may be entitled to several benefits that honor the service and sacrifice of your loved one. These benefits range from financial support to home loans and burial arrangements. Let’s explore some of these crucial benefits available to you.
Death Pension
Survivors may qualify for a Death Pension if the veteran had honorable wartime service and the death was not related to service. This pension can provide vital financial support to help you maintain your quality of life.
Home Loans
The VA offers loan guarantees for the un-remarried spouses of veterans who died from service-connected disabilities. Even if you remarry, you can still qualify for this benefit if you do so after age 57. This benefit can be utilized in various ways, such as:
- Purchasing a home
- Building a new property
- Improving an existing home
Burial
Spouses of veterans have the option to be buried in VA national cemeteries. The benefits here include:
- Grave opening and closing
- Perpetual care
- A government-provided headstone or marker
If you prefer a private cemetery, the VA still offers significant support, including headstones, a burial flag, and potential coverage of some expenses.
Aid & Attendance
If you qualify for DIC or Death Pension and need additional help with daily activities, you may be eligible for Aid & Attendance benefits. This can be an essential resource for those who require extra assistance in their day-to-day lives.
Understanding and utilizing these benefits can make a significant difference in your quality of life. Be sure to explore all the options available to you as the spouse of a veteran.
FAQs
Who qualifies for CHAMPVA?
Spouses of veterans who died from service-connected disabilities or were permanently disabled.
What is the Fry Scholarship?
A program offering up to 36 months of Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits.
What is Dependency and Indemnity Compensation?
A monthly benefit for surviving spouses, children, or parents of deceased veterans.
Can remarried spouses get home loans?
Yes, if remarried after age 57.
What burial benefits are available?
Options include national cemetery burial, headstones, and burial flags.
