When a veteran dies of mesothelioma or another service-connected asbestos disease, the surviving family may be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) — a monthly, tax-free VA benefit for survivors. Many families do not realize this benefit exists.

What DIC Is

DIC is a benefit paid to eligible surviving spouses, children, and in some cases dependent parents of a veteran whose death resulted from a service-connected condition. If the VA recognized (or would recognize) the veteran’s mesothelioma as service-connected under 38 CFR § 3.309(d), the veteran’s death from that disease can be the basis for a survivor’s DIC claim.

Who May Qualify

  • A surviving spouse (with rules regarding the length of marriage and remarriage)
  • Dependent children under the applicable age limits
  • In limited circumstances, dependent parents

Survivors may qualify even if the veteran never filed a VA claim during their lifetime, as long as the death was due to a service-connected condition. Survivors of a veteran who was rated 100% for a qualifying period before death may also have a path to benefits.

What DIC Provides

  • A monthly, tax-free payment at the VA’s DIC rate, set by federal rate tables
  • Additional amounts for dependent children and certain other circumstances
  • It is separate from — and does not reduce — any other benefit or claim

How to File and Get Free Help

DIC claims are filed directly with the VA — not with a law firm. Start at VA.gov or call 1-800-827-1000. Veterans Service Organizations — DAV, VFW, and the American Legion — provide free, accredited help to survivors filing DIC claims.

A Civil Claim May Also Be Available

Separately from DIC, the family of a veteran who died of asbestos disease may have a civil wrongful-death or survival claim against the asbestos manufacturers — a distinct matter handled by an asbestos attorney. See VA Benefits vs. Civil Lawsuit.

This page is educational only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. VA benefits are a government process; use VA.gov or a Veterans Service Organization for help filing. This website is published by an independent media organization and is not a law firm.