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This tool provides estimates for educational purposes only. We are not accredited by the Department of Veterans Affairs and do not file claims, provide legal advice, or represent veterans before the VA (38 U.S.C. § 5904). For official assistance, contact a VSO, CVSO, or VA-accredited attorney.

Scenario

Surviving spouse navigating DIC and CHAMPVA

For: Surviving spouse of a veteran whose death may meet DIC eligibility

A path for a surviving spouse exploring Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) and CHAMPVA healthcare. Both programs are administered by VA and have specific eligibility tied to the veteran’s service connection or cause of death.

  1. Check DIC eligibility

    DIC may be available to a surviving spouse if the veteran died from a service-connected condition, or if the veteran was rated totally disabled for a qualifying period before death. The DIC guide explains the specific tests under 38 CFR § 3.5.

    DIC eligibility→

  2. Check CHAMPVA eligibility

    CHAMPVA may provide healthcare coverage to a surviving spouse and qualifying dependents when the veteran died from, or was permanently and totally disabled by, a service-connected condition.

    CHAMPVA eligibility→

  3. Apply for CHAMPVA

    CHAMPVA is a separate application from DIC. The application walkthrough lists the forms, the VA Form 10-10d, and the proof-of-eligibility documents the program asks for.

    CHAMPVA application→

  4. Talk to a CVSO for survivor claim filing

    A CVSO or VSO can prepare and file the DIC and CHAMPVA paperwork at no cost, and can help track related survivor benefits (burial, education, home loan). VBN does not file claims and is not accredited under 38 U.S.C. § 5904.

    Find a CVSO→

Tools and guides this scenario uses

Last reviewed: 2026-04-25. Scenarios are illustrative. For your own case, work with a County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) or VA-accredited representative.