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Federal BenefitUnlikely to Qualify

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation

Disability Compensation

About This Benefit

. Available when: You are a spouse or dependent child of a Servicemember who dies in the line of duty. Note: subject to income limitations for dependent child.

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation is a federal benefit administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for eligible veterans across the United States.

To qualify, veterans must meet the following requirements: for surviving spouse or dependent child of veteran.

Additional factors that may affect eligibility include: additional requirement: subject to income limitations for dependent child.

Why This Benefit Matters

Monthly income. Disability compensation is tax-free monthly income that acknowledges your service-connected conditions. Higher ratings unlock additional benefits and increased payments.

Who Qualifies

  • For surviving spouse or dependent child of veteran
  • Additional requirement: subject to income limitations for dependent child(may improve eligibility)

Last Verified

February 5, 2026

Verified

Source

Official .gov source
https://www.benefits.va.gov/compensation/types-dependency_and_indemnity.asp

Last verified: February 5, 2026

Next Steps

1

Review the official source

Verify current requirements and get the most up-to-date information.

2

Gather your documents

Most applications require your DD-214, VA disability rating letter, and state ID. Some benefits may require additional documentation.

3

Contact the administering office

Visit the official source above for application instructions, or contact your local VA office for assistance.

4

Consider working with a VSO

A Veterans Service Organization (VSO) can help you navigate the application process at no cost. They're trained to maximize your benefits.

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This information is for general reference only and is not a legal eligibility determination. Always verify with a VA-accredited representative.