Join DAV in our support of the Caring for Survivors Act (S. 414/H.R. 1083), bipartisan legislation that would ease the eligibility criteria for Dependency Indemnity Compensation (DIC) and increase the monthly benefit amount to match benefits provided by other federal survivor programs. Specifically, the measure would:
Expand eligibility for DIC by replacing the 10-year rule with a graduated scale of benefits that begins at five years for initial eligibility at 50% and gradually reaches the full benefit at 10 years after determination of disability. For example, if a veteran is rated as totally disabled for five years and dies of a nonservice-connected cause, a survivor would be entitled to 50% of the DIC benefit.
Increase the amount of DIC to 55% of the rate of monthly compensation received by a totally disabled veteran.
We fully support the Caring for Survivors Act, which is in accordance with DAV Resolution Nos. 002 and 162, calling for reducing the 10-year rule and reforming DIC benefits.
Please use the prepared email to contact your Senators and Representative to co-sponsor the Caring for Survivors Act. Thank you for supporting service-disabled veterans, their families and survivors.