Quick answer: VA survivor benefits in 2026 include Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) and a needs-based survivors pension. For Dec 1, 2025–Nov 30, 2026, the basic survivors pension MAPR is $11,699/year for a surviving spouse, rising to $18,697/year with Aid and Attendance. Benefits are tax-free.
Key takeaways
- Survivors may qualify for DIC (a flat monthly benefit) or a needs-based survivors pension, depending on the situation.
- The basic survivors pension MAPR for the 2026 period is $11,699/year for a surviving spouse.
- With Aid and Attendance, the surviving spouse rate rises to $18,697/year ($1,558/month).
- DIC generally applies when a veteran dies from a service-connected condition.
- You apply at VA.gov, and benefits are tax-free.
What are VA survivor benefits?
VA survivor benefits support the spouses, children, and sometimes parents of veterans who have died. There are two main cash programs. Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a monthly benefit for survivors of veterans who died from a service-connected condition. The survivors pension is a needs-based benefit for low-income surviving spouses and children of deceased wartime veterans.
For the full benefits landscape, see our Veterans Benefits 2026 Guide.
Who qualifies in 2026?
For DIC, you generally qualify if you are the surviving spouse, child, or dependent parent of a veteran who died from a service-connected disability, or who was rated totally disabled for a required length of time before death. For the survivors pension, you must be the surviving spouse or child of a deceased wartime veteran and meet income and net-worth limits.
The 2026 net-worth limit of $163,699 that applies to veterans pension also applies to the survivors pension. Because DIC eligibility rules are detailed, confirm them at the official survivor benefits page on VA.gov.
How much do survivor benefits pay in 2026?
The survivors pension works like the veterans pension: it pays the difference between your countable income and the MAPR. The table below shows the 2026 survivors pension figures for a surviving spouse.
| Survivors pension (surviving spouse) | 2026 MAPR (per year) | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| Basic survivors pension | $11,699 | — |
| With Aid and Attendance | $18,697 | $1,558 |
DIC is a separate flat-rate benefit and is not income-tested the same way. Because DIC base rates and add-ons (for children, Aid and Attendance, or housebound status) vary, check the current DIC amount at VA.gov. If the survivor needs daily care, review our Aid and Attendance Benefits 2026 guide.
How to apply for survivor benefits
You can apply for DIC and survivors pension at VA.gov, by mail, or in person. DIC uses VA Form 21P-534EZ. Gather the veteran’s death certificate, marriage and birth certificates, and the veteran’s service records (DD214). A free accredited Veterans Service Officer can help survivors file at no cost.
For general filing tips, see our How to Apply for VA Benefits guide. Survivors may also be eligible for Social Security survivor benefits — see our Social Security guide.
People Also Ask
What benefits does a surviving spouse of a veteran get?
A surviving spouse may receive DIC if the veteran died from a service-connected condition, or a needs-based survivors pension if income is low. The 2026 basic survivors pension MAPR is $11,699/year, rising to $18,697/year with Aid and Attendance. Health care and education benefits may also apply.
What is VA DIC?
DIC (Dependency and Indemnity Compensation) is a tax-free monthly benefit for eligible survivors of veterans who died from a service-connected condition or who were totally disabled for a required period. It is a flat-rate benefit, not income-tested like pension. Check the current DIC rate at VA.gov.
How much is the VA survivors pension in 2026?
For the 2026 period, the basic survivors pension MAPR is $11,699/year for a surviving spouse. With Aid and Attendance, it rises to $18,697/year ($1,558/month). Your actual payment equals the MAPR minus your countable income, so lower income means a higher benefit.
Can a surviving spouse get both DIC and pension?
Generally, the VA pays the greater of DIC or survivors pension, not both at once. DIC is usually higher and is not income-tested. The VA will help you apply for the benefit that gives you the most. Confirm your options at VA.gov or with a Veterans Service Officer.
Are VA survivor benefits taxable?
No. VA survivor benefits, including DIC and survivors pension, are tax-free and not reported as income on your federal tax return. This makes them especially valuable for surviving spouses on a fixed income. Always confirm your specific tax situation, but these VA benefits are not federally taxed.
Official sources
Reviewed by the Guru Gazette Editorial Review Team · Last reviewed June 2026. Figures are verified against official government sources; see our Fact-Checking Policy.