Parents' Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)
Parents' dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC) is a needs-based benefit paid to parents (biological, adoptive, or foster) of a deceased military service-member or Veteran. The foster parent relationship must have been in place for at least one ...
What is Parents' Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)?
Parents' Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a needs-based benefit paid to parents (biological, adoptive, or foster) who were financially dependent on a military Servicemember or Veteran who died from a service-related cause. The foster parent relationship must have been in place for at least one year before the Veteran last entered active duty and prior to the Veteran's 21st birthday. The one-year period may end after the Veteran’s 21st birthday, as long as it begins before the Veteran’s 21st birthday, and lasts at least one continuous year.
Program Requirements
To qualify, the claimant(s) must be the parent(s) of a military Servicemember or Veteran who died from one of the following causes:
- A disease or injury incurred or aggravated while on active duty or active duty for training, OR
- An injury incurred or aggravated in the line of duty, or certain diseases incurred while on inactive duty for training, OR
- A service-connected disability.
Income limits apply.
In addition, unreimbursed medical expenses that have been paid by the parent may help to reduce his or her countable income.
For more specific information, refer to the Parents' DIC factsheet.
Application Details
What is the application process for Parents' Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)?
To complete an application, use VA Form 21P-535, Application for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation by Parent(s) (Including Accrued Benefits and Death Compensation when Applicable), and mail or fax it to the VA Pension Management Center (PMC) that serves your state. Check the PMC Locator to find the PMC having jurisdiction over the claim.