Benefit wise...What happens when I die??

[LESASSIER]

My wife and I are trying to understand whether she will continue to receive my funds.  I am currently being paid at the 100% rating for my disability.  What things must I do to prepare with The VA upon my demise? 

[LESASSIER]

Thanks, I will be listening!!!

[broncovet]

The two ways for a widow to qualify for dic payments are:

1.  For the Veteran to die of a service connected condition.  This generally requires an autopsy where the cause of death is determined to be a service connected condition.  This means the widow often needs to order an autopsy if in doubt of the cause of death.  

2.  For the death of the Veteran to die of   any condition "after" the Veteran has been 100 percent P and T for 10 full years.  

 

Important:   If the Veteran has claims pending at his death, the widow needs to file a substitution of claimant, then she can proceed with the claim. 

https://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/VBA-21P-0847-ARE.pdf

This can be a difference maker if the claimant has applied for, say "heart benefits" and then dies before va awards these benefits.  VA loves to do just that..delay the claims till we die.  

Take note:  

Quote

The substitution of claimant must be filed within a year of death of the Veteran or the wife looses out.