When a 100% Disabled Veteran Dies
Losing a loved one is always difficult, but when that loved one is a 100% disabled veteran, the experience can be especially challenging. These individuals have sacrificed greatly for their country, and their passing leaves a gaping hole in the lives of those who loved them.
What Happens to the Benefits
When a 100% disabled veteran dies, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is responsible for handling their estate and benefits. This process is outlined in Public Law 85-512, which ensures that the veteran’s dependents receive the necessary support. Here are the key benefits that are typically affected:
• Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): The VA provides DIC to eligible surviving spouses, children, and dependent parents of a 100% disabled veteran. The rate of DIC is currently $1,357 per month, effective January 2022.
• Accrued Benefits: The veteran’s accrued benefits, which are benefits earned but not yet received, are payable to their surviving spouse, child, or dependent parent.
• Burial Expenses: The VA also pays for burial expenses, including the cost of the headstone or marker, the grave, and other funeral expenses. The benefit is currently $938 for non-service connected burials and $819 for service-connected burials.
• Other Benefits: Depending on the circumstances, the VA may also pay for things like medical expenses, clothing allowance, and other assistance programs.
Notifying the VA
When a 100% disabled veteran dies, it’s essential to notify the VA promptly to ensure that the correct procedures are followed. This can be done by contacting the Veterans Affairs Field Office or submitting a Death Report Form (21-509).
Funeral Benefits
The VA provides financial assistance for funeral expenses to eligible veterans. To qualify, the veteran must have:
• Been deceased on or after October 9, 1997
• Been enrolled in the VA’s compensation program at the time of their death
• Have a death certificate stating that the cause of death is not related to active duty
The $938 non-service-connected burial benefit mentioned earlier includes the cost of the headstone or marker, grave, and other funeral expenses.
Service-Related Death
If the veteran’s death is service-connected, the VA may pay for additional expenses, including:
• Travel and lodging expenses for families to attend the funeral
• Inscription on the veteran’s headstone at a national cemetery
• Burial in a national cemetery, if not already buried in one
• Monetary allowances for dependent children under 18 or students between 18 and 23
Claims and Documentation
To receive benefits, families must submit a claim and provide the necessary documentation, including:
• Death certificate: This document should specify the cause of death
• Burial statement: This statement verifies the burial expenses and other costs
• Letter of intent: This letter specifies the type of headstone or marker desired
Additional Resources
When a 100% disabled veteran dies, families can turn to the following resources for support:
• Widows, Orphans and Adoptees Act of 1930: This law provides assistance to families, including counseling services, medical care, and vocational rehabilitation
• American Legion: This organization provides emotional support, advocacy, and other services to veteran families
• Disabled American Veterans (DAV): This organization provides resources, assistance, and advocacy for disabled veterans and their families
Conclusion
The passing of a 100% disabled veteran can be a devastating experience, but it’s essential to know what benefits and resources are available to help the family navigate this difficult time. By understanding the processes and procedures, families can focus on their grief and move forward with dignity and respect. Remember, it’s crucial to notify the VA promptly and submit the necessary claims and documentation to ensure that the correct benefits are received.
