If the spouse was separated from the veteran at the time of his or her death, the spouse may still be eligible if the separation was not his or her fault. There is an additional eligibility requirement for dependent parents. Unlike spouses and children, dependent parents are only eligible if they make under a certain amount of money. Applying for benefits You can apply by filling out VA Form 21-534, Application for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, Death Pension and Accrued Benefits by a Surviving Spouse or Child, and mailing it to the VA regional office that serves your area. Attach copies of marriage and birth certificates, if available.
Additional benefits are available if the spouse needs aids or is housebound.
The amount of the benefits available for surviving children depends on whether there is a surviving spouse. If there is, children are entitled to a set amount, depending on whether they are in school or helpless. Find the right lawyer fast. Know the cost up front. Get help from a legal professional.