A Death Pension is a benefit paid to eligible dependents of deceased wartime veterans. You may be eligible to receive a Death Pension if your income is below a yearly limit set by law. The Veterans Administration will pay the difference between your documented income and the yearly income limit that pertains to your situation. To apply for this benefit, contact the VA to get a VA Form 21-534, Application for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Or Death Pension by Surviving Spouse or Child. You will need to attach copies of dependency records, such as marriage certificates and children's birth certificates.

If a veteran dies because of a service-related illness or injury, or was disabled while in the service, you may be eligible to receive Dependency and Indemnity Compensation. The Veteran's Administration pays a basic monthly rate of $911 to eligible surviving spouses and may pay more in some cases. Contact the Veterans Administration at 1-800-827-1000 or www.va.gov for information about rates paid to eligible children. You can apply for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation by filling out VA Form 21-534 (Application for Dependency And Indemnity Compensation, Death Pension And Accrued Benefits By A Surviving Spouse or Child) and mailing it to the VA regional office that serves your area. The VA website includes a listing of all VA regional offices and all the forms that you may need to complete.

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Content is for informational purposes only and may not accurately reflect your specific situation. Information is not intended to provide financial, legal, tax, or accounting advice. You should consult a qualified advisor for advice specific to your own circumstances.