Types of Spousal Benefits

Healthcare Benefits Through CHAMPVA

Spouses of veterans with a 100% permanent and total (P&T) disability rating, or those classified as totally disabled due to individual unemployability (TDIU), may be eligible for healthcare coverage through the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA).

CHAMPVA covers most medically necessary services and works similarly to private health insurance. Services must be provided by licensed healthcare providers.

Educational Assistance: DEA Program

The Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program provides monthly payments to spouses pursuing education or training. Eligible spouses typically have 10 years to use these benefits, though recent rules have removed time limits in certain cases.

DEA benefits can be applied to:

• College degrees
• Career training certificate programs
• Apprenticeships
• On-the-job training

DEA Monthly Rates (Oct 1, 2023 – Sep 30, 2024):

• $1,488 – Full-time
• $1,176 – ¾ time
• $866 – Half-time
• Up to $862 – Less than half-time, more than ¼ time
• Up to $372 – ¼ time or less

Apprenticeship and On-the-Job Training Rates:

• Months 1–6: $945/month
• Months 7–12: $710/month
• Months 13–18: $466/month
• Months 19 and beyond: $237/month

Additional Monetary Compensation for Dependents

Veterans with a 30% or higher disability rating can receive extra monthly compensation for a dependent spouse. For those rated at 100%, the 2024 increase for a spouse is $208.40, bringing the total monthly benefit to $3,946.25.

Learn more about compensation rates on the VA’s compensation rates page.

Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC)

Spouses providing personal care to a veteran with at least a 70% disability rating may qualify as a designated caregiver under the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC).

Benefits for primary family caregivers include:

• A monthly caregiver stipend
• Access to CHAMPVA healthcare
• Respite care for the veteran
• Travel reimbursements
• Mental health counseling
• Training and educational resources

Survivor Benefits: Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)

If a 100% disabled veteran passes away, the surviving spouse may qualify for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC).

2024 Base DIC Rate: $1,612.75/month

Additional DIC amounts may apply if:

• The veteran was rated 100% disabled for 8+ years and was married to the spouse that entire time: +$342.46/month
• The spouse is housebound: +$187.17/month
• The spouse requires aid and attendance: +$399.54/month

Surviving spouses may also qualify for:

• VA-backed home loans – Learn more
• Career counseling and employment services
• Financial planning and benefits navigation

Get Legal Help with Your VA Spousal Benefits

Veterans and their families often face complicated paperwork, delays, or denials when trying to access benefits. Speaking with a qualified VA disability attorney can significantly increase your chances of success.

The Veterans Law Group or call 1-888-546-6904 to get help today.