DIC (Dependency and Indemnity Compensation)
VA Terminology Definition
Plain English Definition
Monthly tax-free payments to surviving spouses and dependents of veterans who died from service-connected causes.
Why This Matters
If a veteran dies from a service-connected disability OR was rated P&T for 10+ years before death, survivors may qualify for DIC. As of 2026, the base rate is over $1,600/month for surviving spouses.
Example
A veteran rated 100% P&T for 12 years passes away from unrelated causes. Their spouse qualifies for DIC because the veteran held P&T status for more than 10 years.