The simple answer to whether your spouse will continue to receive your VA disability payments after you die is, in many cases, yes. If you qualify for disability payments from the VA because of a service-related injury or illness, those payments should continue to be paid to your surviving spouse. There are some exceptions to this rule, such as if your husband or wife remarries.
The best course you can take when determining how your death will affect your disability payments is to talk with a knowledgeable veterans’ lawyer, like at our law firm. We can help answer your questions and ensure you and your family receive the full compensation you deserve, so call us today.
How Does the Surviving Spouse Qualify for VA Disability?
Several conditions must be met for your spouse to continue receiving financial support through the VA disability program. At least one of the following must be true about you, the veteran who qualifies for disability payments:
- Your death occurred while on active duty,
- Your death was the cause of a service-related injury or illness, or
- You received qualifying VA disability payments because of injury or illness during military service.
Your spouse must also be able to prove that at least one of the following is true:
- He/she married you, the service member, before January 1, 1957,
- The marriage took place within fifteen years of your discharge,
- The marriage lasted at least one year, or
- He/she shares children with you.
Your spouse must also prove that he or she has not remarried, as this would discontinue any VA benefits.
How Can I Make Sure My Spouse Will Continue Receiving VA Disability Benefits?
Speaking openly with your spouse about the possibility of your death can be difficult, but this is a critical first step in ensuring their needs will be met if you should die. The two of you should discuss the benefits that may be received through VA disability and familiarize yourselves with the Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) that allows your spouse to receive VA benefits after you die. With this knowledge, you can plan for your spouse to apply for and receive the benefits they deserve.
The most important step is to reach out to a skilled veterans’ attorney for help. That is why you should call us today.
Can A Veteran’s Attorney Help Me Get VA Disability Payments for My Spouse After I Die?
With the high-risk nature of military service, you never know when your time might come. Your family should be taken care of in the event of your death, and knowing that they will receive VA disability benefits after you die can be a great comfort to you and them.
Our veterans’ lawyer knows how challenging it can be to navigate the legal aspects of the VA. That’s why we are here. We enjoy helping those who have served our country live with the peace of mind that they and their families will be provided for, thanks to their selfless service. Call us today to ensure your loved ones have the benefits they deserve at (612) 888-9567.