Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (DEA)

This federal program helps surviving family members access educational opportunities through monthly stipends. Eligible children must be unmarried (though marriage does not disqualify spouses) and can use benefits for various educational pathways including college degrees, technical certifications, on-the-job training, and apprenticeships. Payment amounts and duration vary based on the type of training pursued and when eligibility was established. Children who became eligible before August 1, 2023 generally have until age 26 to use benefits, though extensions apply in certain circumstances such as military service. Spouses typically have 10 to 20 years to use their benefits depending on the qualifying event. Applicants must enroll in VA-approved programs at accredited institutions and verify enrollment monthly. The program also includes educational and career counseling services. Beneficiaries cannot use this program while on active military duty, and divorced spouses or those with dishonorable discharges are ineligible. Children receiving Dependency and Indemnity Compensation must forfeit those payments to use DEA benefits.