Survivor Benefits to Know About
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The Department of Veteran Affairs operates several different programs for those who are either survivors of the military or their families, such as spouse, parent, or child.

One of the programs is called My Way Forward. On their official government website, it states that families of veterans or survivors are eligible for benefits regardless of whether their lost loved one was serving or already retired at the time of their death. Benefits available through the Veteran Affairs are varied and considerable, so take the time to become familiar with the programs. You can find more information at http://www.mywayforward.com/government/survivor_benefits/veterans_survivor_benefits/

One of the more notable benefits is funeral services and that is offered to the veteran if their death was from a service-related injury, passed away in a Veteran Affairs facility or were in receipt of compensation or pension. The Veteran affairs cover the burial at a national cemetery which doesn’t cost the family anything. Their headstone is also covered. According to White Oak Crematorium, these benefits can have a range of anywhere between $300 to $2,000 depending on the veteran’s service status at their time of death. You can find more information at http://www.medinacountyveteransserviceoffice.org/info/va-survivor-benefits

There are several organizations that give support to the families of the deceased. It is important to realize that while the family and friends may grieve a certain way, survivors of the same incident, may grieve in an entirely different way. These are only a few different organizations that help, but there isn’t one right organization. The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) is based in Washington, D.C., offers peer support network and grief-counseling referral service, which is an incredible resource. Mothers of fallen soldiers can find support from those who’ve had similar experiences through the American Gold Star Mothers. The Society of Military Widows helps military widows which is very helpful to find a new normal, whatever that may look like for them.

If your loved one passed away on active duty as a result of service-connected disabilities or was fully disabled for 10 years prior to their death, you may be eligible for a tax-free monetary benefit. This is due to the Dependency and Indemnity Compensation. This is something that families should look into.

You may be eligible for financial benefits. The DEA program has been made available to children of veterans who have been injured or passed away during active duty, offering them education and training. Health and educational benefits are also available to family members. This is important to utilize if only needed for a short time.

You can find more information at https://www.newsmax.com/fastfeatures/veterans-survivor-benefits/2018/02/01/id/840857/