DIC is the VA's core income benefit for survivors of a service-connected death. Here's exactly how it works in 2026.
What DIC Covers and Who It's For
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation is a tax-free monthly benefit paid to eligible surviving spouses, dependent children, and certain parents of a veteran or service member whose death was connected to military service. It is paid regardless of your income or net worth because it is compensation for the loss, not a needs-based program. In 2026, a surviving spouse's base rate is $1,699.36 per month (Source: VA.gov). DIC recognizes that a service-connected death changes a family's financial future. If you're navigating this for the first time, call 1-800-MEDIGAP for plain-English help.
2026 DIC Rates and Add-Ons
The 2026 surviving-spouse base rate is $1,699.36 per month. You may add $360.85 if the veteran was totally disabled for at least 8 continuous years before death; about $421 per dependent child; a transitional $359 for the first two years when you have children under 18; and amounts for Aid and Attendance or Housebound status (Source: VA.gov). Because DIC is not means-tested, your wages, pension, or Social Security do not reduce it. To estimate your household's likely total, call 1-800-MEDIGAP and we'll help you understand the add-ons that apply.
DIC and Your Health Coverage
DIC is an income benefit, but qualifying for it often signals you may also qualify for CHAMPVA health coverage and other survivor programs. Many surviving spouses are also Medicare-eligible, and coordinating Medicare with CHAMPVA or a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan can close costly gaps. 1-800-MEDIGAP is the one trusted toll-free number for all things senior in America: call us to understand how DIC, Medicare, and supplemental coverage fit together so you're not paying for benefits you already have.