Benefits & Resources

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When a service member or family member dies, surviving family members may be eligible to continue or modify their TRICARE health insurance coverage. Spouses and children of active duty members, retirees, or National Guard/Reserve members have different coverage options depending on the sponsor's status at the time of death. Eligible individuals have 90 days to make changes to their TRICARE plan.

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The Marine Gunnery Sergeant John David Fry Scholarship provides educational benefits to surviving children and spouses of service members or Selected Reserve members who died on or after September 11, 2001, in the line of duty or from service-connected disabilities. Eligible beneficiaries can receive up to 36 months of educational support covering tuition, housing, books, and related expenses at VA-approved schools.

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The Department of Veterans Affairs offers home loan benefits to surviving spouses of veterans. Eligible survivors can obtain a Certificate of Eligibility to access VA-backed mortgage loans with favorable terms through private lenders. The program requires meeting specific criteria related to the veteran's service status and the survivor's marital history.

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This resource provides information about Gold Star families (those who have lost a loved one in military service) and explains the historical origins and modern recognition of this designation. It outlines the Gold Star Lapel Button program, eligibility criteria, and how families can request buttons. The page also highlights national observances honoring Gold Star families and directs survivors to additional support resources and benefits.

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Arlington National Cemetery provides funeral scheduling services for eligible service members and their families. The process involves contacting the customer service center, submitting required documentation to verify eligibility, and working with cemetery staff to arrange the service. Processing time varies based on document availability, remains type, and military resources.

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A federal financial benefit providing monthly payments to qualifying surviving spouses and unmarried dependent children of deceased wartime Veterans, subject to income and net worth thresholds established by Congress.

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The Department of Veterans Affairs offers financial assistance to surviving family members of veterans through two main programs: Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), a tax-free monthly benefit available to surviving spouses, children, and parents; and Survivors Pension, available to surviving spouses and unmarried dependent children of veterans with wartime service. Additional support includes aid for those needing help with daily activities or who are housebound, bereavement counseling, and various related benefits.

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The DEA program provides education and training assistance to children and spouses of veterans or service members who died in service, are missing in action, were captured, or are permanently and totally disabled from service-connected conditions. Eligible beneficiaries can receive monthly payments to pursue undergraduate or graduate degrees, vocational training, apprenticeships, licensing preparation, and other educational pursuits.

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TRICARE provides continued health insurance coverage to family members after a military sponsor's death. Spouses maintain eligibility until remarriage, and children remain covered based on the sponsor's military status at time of death. Coverage options and costs depend on whether the sponsor was on active duty, in the National Guard/Reserve, or retired.

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The Department of Veterans Affairs provides burial and memorial services for eligible veterans, service members, and their families through VA national cemeteries. These benefits help cover funeral expenses, provide burial locations, and offer commemorative items to honor military service.

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The Department of Veterans Affairs provides tax-free monthly payments to surviving spouses, children, and parents of service members who died in the line of duty or veterans who died from service-related conditions. Eligibility and payment amounts vary based on the survivor's relationship to the deceased and specific circumstances of their death.

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The Department of Veterans Affairs provides multiple life insurance options designed to help veterans, active service members, and their families achieve financial security. These programs offer coverage during service, after separation, and throughout retirement, with various plans tailored to different circumstances and needs.

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A free, confidential national crisis support service available 24/7 through phone calls, text, and chat. Trained counselors provide emotional support for individuals experiencing mental health crises, suicidal thoughts, substance use concerns, or other life challenges. Services are available in English and Spanish, with specialized support for deaf and hard of hearing individuals.

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A free, confidential hotline offering round-the-clock mental health crisis support for military-connected individuals, including active service members, Veterans, National Guard and Reserve members, and their families. No enrollment in VA benefits is required to access services.