As we move into 2024, veterans and their families should be aware of veterans’ survivor benefits that may be available through both Social Security and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). If you’re a surviving spouse, dependent child, or other eligible family member of a veteran, you could be entitled to financial support. Here’s an overview of what you need to know about VA survivor benefits and how they intersect with Social Security in 2024.
Understanding VA Survivor Benefits
The VA offers various survivor benefits to support the families of veterans who have passed away. These benefits may include financial assistance, healthcare, and other services, designed to help ease the financial burden during difficult times. The VA benefits are distinct from Social Security survivor benefits, but the two programs can complement one another in certain situations.
Types of VA Survivor Benefits Available in 2024:
- Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)
- DIC is a monthly benefit paid to the surviving spouse, children, or dependent parents of a veteran whose death was connected to their military service. This benefit is designed to provide financial support if the veteran’s death was a result of a service-related injury or illness.
- Survivors Pension
- This is a need-based benefit for the unmarried surviving spouse or dependent children of a wartime veteran. Eligibility depends on factors such as the veteran’s military service, the survivor’s income, and net worth.
- Burial Benefits
- The VA provides burial benefits to help cover the costs associated with the veteran’s funeral, including transportation, a gravesite, and a headstone or marker. These benefits can also include a funeral allowance for expenses incurred by the surviving family members.
- Health Care Benefits
- Surviving spouses and dependents of veterans may qualify for health care benefits through the VA health system. This includes medical, dental, and vision care, often at little or no cost, depending on the specific eligibility criteria.
- Veterans Group Life Insurance (VGLI)
- If the veteran had a life insurance policy through the VGLI program, surviving family members may be entitled to the death benefit, which could provide additional financial support to the family.
Social Security Survivor Benefits for 2024
In addition to VA benefits, surviving family members may also be eligible for Social Security survivor benefits. These benefits are designed to help provide financial assistance to the family members of someone who has worked and paid into the Social Security system. Here’s how they work:
Types of Social Security Survivor Benefits:
- Surviving Spouse Benefits
- A widow or widower can receive Social Security benefits as early as age 60, or age 50 if they are disabled. If they are caring for a child under 16 or a disabled child, they can begin receiving benefits at any age. The amount of the benefit depends on the deceased spouse’s earnings record.
- Child Benefits
- Unmarried children under 18 (or up to 19 if still in high school) may qualify for Social Security survivor benefits if their parent was covered under Social Security. In some cases, children can receive benefits if they are disabled.
- Parent Benefits
- If a deceased worker supported their parents, the surviving parents may be eligible for Social Security survivor benefits. This is typically only available if the parent is 62 or older and has limited income.
- Lump-Sum Death Benefit
- Social Security also provides a one-time lump-sum payment of $255 to the surviving spouse or children of a worker who was eligible for Social Security.
How Social Security and VA Benefits Work Together
It’s important to note that VA survivor benefits and Social Security survivor benefits are separate programs, but you can receive both at the same time. For example, a surviving spouse may be eligible for DIC from the VA as well as Social Security benefits based on their deceased spouse’s earnings. These two benefits will not affect each other, meaning receiving one does not reduce the other.
However, there is an important caveat to keep in mind when it comes to retirement benefits from Social Security. If a surviving spouse is receiving both DIC and Social Security, some of the benefits may be subject to certain offsets, particularly if they are also receiving a pension or other income from the VA. It’s important to contact the VA or Social Security directly to get detailed information on how your specific situation may be impacted.
How to Apply for VA Survivor Benefits
To apply for VA survivor benefits, you’ll need to complete forms specific to the benefit type. The application process may require you to provide documentation such as:
- The veteran’s service records,
- A death certificate, and
- Any other documentation that supports the survivor’s claim for benefits.
You can apply online through the VA website, by calling the VA Benefits Hotline, or by visiting a local VA office.
How to Apply for Social Security Survivor Benefits
For Social Security survivor benefits, the process involves applying with the Social Security Administration (SSA). You can apply online or call the SSA to schedule an appointment. The SSA will require:
- The death certificate,
- The Social Security number of the deceased, and
- Proof of the survivor’s relationship to the deceased.
If you are already receiving Social Security benefits, you may not need to apply separately for survivor benefits. The SSA will automatically adjust your benefits based on your eligibility.
FAQs
1. Can I receive both Social Security and VA survivor benefits?
Yes, you can receive both Social Security and VA survivor benefits if you qualify for them. These benefits are separate, so receiving one doesn’t impact the other.
2. How much will I receive in VA survivor benefits?
The amount of VA survivor benefits varies based on factors such as the veteran’s service, cause of death, and the survivor’s relationship to the deceased. Benefits like DIC can be a significant amount but may change depending on the survivor’s circumstances.
3. What is the eligibility age for Social Security survivor benefits for a surviving spouse?
A surviving spouse can begin receiving Social Security benefits at age 60, or at age 50 if they are disabled. There is no minimum age if the spouse is caring for a child under age 16 or a disabled child.
4. How do I apply for Social Security survivor benefits?
You can apply for Social Security survivor benefits by visiting the Social Security website, calling the SSA, or scheduling an appointment at a local SSA office. Be prepared to provide documents like the death certificate and your relationship proof.
5. How long does it take to receive VA survivor benefits?
It can take several months to process your application for VA survivor benefits. It’s recommended to apply as soon as possible to ensure timely support.
