DEPENDENCY AND INDEMNITY COMPENSATION (DIC)

Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a tax-free monthly benefit provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to eligible surviving spouses, children, or dependents of a deceased service member or Veteran. DIC benefits may be available when a Veteran passed away due to a service-connected condition, or when certain eligibility requirements related to the Veteran’s disability status and military service are met.

The Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County (VACCC) Veteran Service Officer (VSO) Program provides free assistance to eligible surviving family members seeking to apply for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC). VACCC VSOs assist applicants by reviewing eligibility requirements, helping gather required documentation, preparing and submitting applications, and guiding surviving family members through the VA claims process.

Common Required Documentation

Individuals seeking assistance with a DIC claim should be prepared to provide:

  • Veteran’s DD214 or qualifying military discharge paperwork
  • Current government-issued photo ID for the applicant
  • Veteran’s Death Certificate
  • Marriage certificate, if applying as a surviving spouse
  • Birth certificates for dependent children, if applicable
  • Any prior VA correspondence or VA disability documentation, including:
    • VA Rating Decisions
    • Award Letters
    • Service-connected disability information
  • Medical records or supporting documentation related to the Veteran’s cause of death, if applicable
  • Dependency documentation or legal paperwork, if required

Important Notes

  • Eligibility for DIC benefits depends on the Veteran’s military service history, disability status, and circumstances surrounding the Veteran’s death
  • Surviving spouses, dependent children, and in some cases dependent parents may qualify for benefits
  • Additional documentation may be required depending on the applicant’s circumstances
  • VACCC VSOs provide assistance free of charge

Individuals interested in this service must either complete the intake form online using the QR code located on the VACCC home page, or contact the VACCC office directly at 312.433.6010 and press Menu Option 2 to speak with a Veteran Service Officer.