Family & survivor benefits

Print-and-take checklist. Tick each box as you go, and keep it with your paperwork.

• Confirm the veteran's rating status (P&T vs. 100% schedular, and any totally-disabled continuous period) and keep the decision letters together in one folder. This single document set unlocks CHAMPVA, DIC, and the surviving-spouse home loan
• Determine TRICARE vs. CHAMPVA for the family's health coverage (Section 2) before assuming either applies
• If CHAMPVA applies: file VA Form 10-10d with marriage and birth certificates and the rating decision
• If TRICARE applies: update DEERS and pick a survivor health plan
• Gather DD-214, marriage certificate, and (if applicable) death certificate in one place now, before they're needed under pressure
• If a survivor may qualify for DIC or Survivors Pension: file VA Form 21P-534EZ (free VSO help available)
• If the veteran is a military retiree: confirm the SBP election on DD Form 2656 reflects the current family situation, and don't assume it's still being offset against DIC (the offset ended February 1, 2023)
• If caregiving needs may arise: check the 70% combined-rating plus personal-care-need bar for PCAFC (Form 10-10CG) vs. the no-minimum PGCSS support track
• If a surviving spouse may need to buy a home: request the Certificate of Eligibility now (VA Form 26-1817) rather than waiting
• File VA Form 40-10007 for pre-need cemetery eligibility so burial logistics aren't a scramble later
• Know where to get the burial allowance (Form 21P-530EZ), burial flag (Form 27-2008), and headstone or marker (Form 40-1330) when the time comes
• Never pay anyone to file a claim, rating appeal, or survivor application. Use a free VA-accredited VSO at va.gov/vso

Full step-by-step guide: ratednowwhat.com/family-and-survivor-benefits#h2_5741f200

Education only. Not the VA, not a government agency, and not financial, tax, or legal advice. Help with a VA claim or rating is always free through a VA-accredited Veteran Service Officer.