Notifying the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) after a veteran's death is an important step to ensure that any benefits and services are properly managed and to initiate any survivor benefits that may be available. Here are the steps and considerations for notifying the VA:
When to Notify the VA
As Soon as Possible: It is advisable to notify the VA as soon as possible after the veteran's death. Prompt notification helps to expedite the processing of any benefits or services that may be due to the survivors.
Steps to Notify the VA
Prepare Information: Gather the necessary information about the deceased veteran, including:
Full name
Social Security number
VA claim number or file number (if available)
Date and place of birth
Date and place of death
Service details (branch, dates of service, discharge status)
Copy of the death certificate
Contact the VA:
Call the VA: You can notify the VA by calling their national helpline at 1-800-827-1000.
Visit a VA Office: You can also visit a local VA regional office in person to report the death.
Online Notification: Some services may be available through the VA's website, but direct contact is generally more effective for reporting a death.
Provide Documentation:
Death Certificate: Be prepared to provide a certified copy of the veteran’s death certificate. This may be requested by the VA to process any claims or benefits.
Additional Documents: Depending on the specific circumstances and benefits, you may need to provide additional documentation such as the veteran’s discharge papers (DD Form 214), marriage certificate (if applicable), or other relevant records.
Potential Benefits and Considerations
Survivor Benefits: The VA provides several benefits to survivors of deceased veterans, including:
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): A monthly benefit for eligible surviving spouses, children, and dependent parents.
Survivors Pension: A needs-based benefit for eligible surviving spouses and unmarried dependent children.
Educational Assistance: Benefits for surviving spouses and children under the Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA) program.
Home Loan Guaranty: Potential eligibility for VA-backed home loans for surviving spouses.
Burial Benefits:
Burial Allowance: Financial assistance for burial, funeral, and transportation costs.
Headstone or Marker: Provision of a government headstone or marker for the veteran’s grave.
Presidential Memorial Certificate: A certificate signed by the President to honor the veteran’s service.
Burial in a VA National Cemetery: Eligibility for burial in a VA national cemetery, which includes a gravesite, opening and closing of the grave, perpetual care, and a headstone or marker.
Adjusting VA Benefits:
Discontinue Veteran Benefits: Ensure that any ongoing VA benefits the veteran was receiving, such as disability compensation or pension, are discontinued to avoid overpayments.
Adjust Survivor Benefits: Transition any applicable benefits to the eligible survivors.
Additional Resources
Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs): Organizations such as the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and Disabled American Veterans (DAV) can provide assistance with notifying the VA and applying for survivor benefits.
VA Regional Offices: Local VA offices can provide direct support and guidance on the process.
By notifying the VA promptly and providing the necessary documentation, you can help ensure that the veteran’s benefits are properly managed and that any eligible survivor benefits are initiated in a timely manner.