Surviving military spouses, male or female, receive numerous specific benefits in the event their service-member spouse dies as a result of their service. The benefits to which a military spouse is entitled can change with new regulations or legislation, so seek qualified legal assistance if you have specific questions about your rights.
Dependents Indemnity Compensation
One of the key benefits granted to surviving military wives is Dependents Indemnity Compensation, sometimes referred to as DIC. These payments are paid to any spouse of a service member who dies in active duty, training for active duty, from wounds suffered in the line of duty or from a disability treated by the Veterans Administration. These payments are based primarily on the spouse's pay grade, though other factors can increase the amount awarded. For example, wives of an E-4 receive $1,154 per month, while wives of an O-4 receive $1,427 per month. Wives are also entitled to $286 per month, per child under the age of 18.
Death Gratuity
In addition to the DIC monthly payments, military wives whose spouses die on active duty, in combat, in training or within 120 days of their release from service from wounds suffered in active duty, receive a one time lump-sum payment. As of July 2010, the payment is $100,000 and is tax exempt, according to the Department of Defense. The service member can designate one or more beneficiaries to receive this amount.
Educational Assistance
Surviving military wives are also entitled to receive educational assistance from the Department of Defense for up to 20 years from their husband's final date of service. These educational benefits allow wives to pursue a degree, professional certification, vocational training or other related educational opportunities. These benefits also extend to the soldier's children, until the age of 26.
