A Rundown on filing for DIC Benefits

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a wide range of benefits and
services for the surviving spouse, dependent children and dependent parents
of deceased veterans and military service members.

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) -- is a tax-free benefit for the
surviving spouse and dependent children of those Veteran KIA in or as a result of WWII.
The basic monthly rate of DIC is $1,033 for an eligible surviving spouse.

Note that a surviving spouse who remarries on or after December 16, 2003,
and on or after attaining age 57, is entitled to continue to receive DIC.

A spouse's Survivor Benefits Plan (SBP) annuity, however, is reduced
by any DIC amount received.

For specifics on DIC benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs,
download a Word Document from this web page: Click Here!

To apply for DIC benefits: Usually an application for DIC benefits is completed
by the Casualty Assistance Officer and submitted on behalf of the survivor.

To apply on your own, you'll need VA Form 21-534 -- the form entitled: Application
for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation by a Surviving Spouse or Child.

Download a PDF copy of the form: Click Here!

Be aware that this form needs special processing and should be mailed
or FAXED, along with DD Form 1300 (Report of Casualty), to:

Department of Veterans Affairs
Regional Office and Insurance Center
P.O. Box 8079
Philadelphia, PA 19101
FAX number: (215) 381-3084.

For additional assistance:
Call: 1-800-827-1000

Thanks to many over the years
for help in working through the application process,
most recently to Pat Letellier, son of Sergeant Major Lawrence J. Letellier, USMC,
KIA 15 September 44 at Peleliu Island