Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) Application

Definition

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a tax-free monetary benefit provided 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. The DIC application is the process through which survivors apply for these benefits. The application requires submitting necessary documentation and information to the Department of Veterans Affairs to determine eligibility and entitlement.

Key Takeaways

1. Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a tax-free monetary benefit generally payable 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.
2. To apply for the DIC benefit, an eligible survivor must complete and submit VA Form 21-534EZ, “Application for DIC, Death Pension, and/or Accrued Benefits.” This form can be submitted online through the Veterans Affairs’ eBenefits portal, by mail, or in person at a regional VA office.
3. Documentation supporting the application, such as the veteran’s discharge papers (DD214), death certificate, marriage certificate, and dependent children’s birth certificates, should be included with the application to expedite the review process. If applicable, the survivor may also submit medical evidence connecting the cause of death to the veteran’s military service.

Importance

The VA benefits term: Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) Application is important because it provides essential financial assistance to the surviving family members of military service members, including spouses, dependent children, and, in some cases, parents, who have passed away due to a service-related injury or disease.

Submitting the DIC application allows these loved ones to receive monthly monetary benefits, thereby offering a crucial support system in the aftermath of their loss.

Additionally, the DIC application can help families access additional benefits such as healthcare, educational assistance, and home loan aid, which further bolsters their financial security and well-being during a challenging period.

Explanation

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) Application serves as a crucial component for qualifying eligible beneficiaries to receive financial assistance from the Department of Veterans Affairs. The primary objective of this benefit is to provide monetary support to the surviving spouses, dependent children, and dependent parents of military service members and veterans who have lost their lives during active duty, or due to service-related injuries or diseases.

DIC not only recognizes the ultimate sacrifices made by these service members but also alleviates the financial burdens faced by their surviving dependents, ensuring they continue to lead dignified lives. The DIC application process is designed to verify the eligibility of applicants and determine the extent of their financial needs.

Factors such as the service member’s cause of death, current income and assets of the dependents, and duration of their relationship with the deceased are evaluated when reviewing an application. Ultimately, the purpose of the DIC application is to offer monetary relief and reassurance to the surviving family members of our nation’s heroes who have selflessly fulfilled their duties at the cost of their lives.

By providing this compensation, the Department of Veterans Affairs acknowledges the invaluable contributions of these service members and strives to honor their families by ensuring their well-being and financial stability.

Examples of Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) Application

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. Here are three real-world examples of DIC application:

A widow of an active-duty soldier who died while participating in a military training exercise would be eligible to apply for DIC. She could submit the DIC application with all the required documents, such as proof of marriage, the soldier’s death certificate, and any records related to the service-related death, to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to secure financial compensation.

The surviving spouse of a veteran who served in the Vietnam War and developed lung cancer due to prolonged exposure to Agent Orange could submit a DIC application to the VA. The application would include the veteran’s medical records, evidence of their exposure to Agent Orange, a death certificate stating that lung cancer caused their death, and other required supporting documents.

A dependent child of a veteran who died from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) caused by their military service would be eligible to apply for DIC. The child’s guardian would submit the DIC application, including the veteran’s medical records, documentation of the service-related PTSD, a death certificate indicating the cause of death, and any other relevant evidence, to the VA to help provide financial support for the dependent child.

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) Application – FAQ

What is Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)?

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a tax-free monetary benefit generally available 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.

Who is eligible to apply for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)?

Eligible applicants include surviving spouses, unmarried children under the age of 18, and parents of deceased military service members or veterans who meet the specific eligibility criteria outlined by the VA.

How do I apply for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)?

You can apply for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) online through the VA website, by mail, or in person at a VA regional office. The necessary forms and documentation will depend on the applicant’s relationship to the deceased service member or veteran.

What documents do I need to submit with my DIC application?

Required documentation for a DIC application typically include a completed VA Form 21P-534EZ (for surviving spouses) or VA Form 21P-535 (for surviving children), the deceased’s military discharge papers, and supporting evidence such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, and medical records depending on the claim type.

How long does it take to process a DIC application?

The processing time for a DIC application can vary, but generally, it takes several months to receive a decision on your claim. If additional information or documentation is required, the process can take even longer.

What benefits do eligible survivors receive through DIC?

Eligible survivors who receive DIC benefits can expect to receive a tax-free monthly payment determined by the VA. The amount may vary depending on factors such as the applicant’s relationship to the deceased service member or veteran, the presence of dependent children, and other applicable circumstances.

Can I receive DIC benefits if I remarry or have a new partner?

Surviving spouses who remarry before the age of 57 typically lose their eligibility for DIC benefits. However, if a surviving spouse remarries on or after their 57th birthday, they may continue to receive DIC benefits. New partners of surviving spouses are not eligible for DIC benefits unless they also meet the eligibility criteria.

Related VA Benefit Terms

• Survivors Pension
• Service-Connected Death
• Accrued Benefits
• VA Form 21-534EZ
• Spouse and Child Benefits

Sources for More Information

• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
• Vets.gov
• Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)