Checklist

Surviving Family

If you've lost your service member or veteran: we're sorry. Go slowly — almost nothing here has a same-week deadline, and the people below are paid to help you, free.

Stuck on a step? Ask →

Lean on the assigned Casualty Assistance Officer (CAO/CACO) — they are your single point of contact for everything officialYou do not have to figure out the system alone; that is literally their job.
SGLI claim: the CAO helps file with OSGLI (Prudential); payment is typically fast once filedNo deadline, but file earlyThis is usually the first money available to the family.
Apply for DIC (Dependency and Indemnity Compensation) — VA Form 21P-534EZ⏰ Within 1 year of the death for full back-pay to the dateFiled later still works, but the effective date moves. Marriage-duration rules have exceptions — ask before assuming you don't qualify.
SBP (Survivor Benefit Plan) annuity through DFAS if the member was retired or died on duty — and know the DIC offset was fully repealed (you can receive both)DFAS will guide timingOlder internet advice still describes the offset that no longer exists — don't let it stop you.
Claim arrears of pay from DFAS (SF 1174) and report the death to DFAS to stop overpayments cleanlyEarlyUncorrected deposits later become clawback letters at the worst time.
TRICARE continues for surviving spouses and children — confirm your category with DEERS; ID cards stay valid and renewCheck before renewals lapseSurvivor healthcare doesn't stop, but paperwork gaps interrupt it.
One final government-paid household goods move is available⏰ Generally within 1 year (extensions possible)Take the time you need — but calendar the window and ask for the extension before it lapses.
Connect with TAPS (800-959-8277, 24/7) and Military OneSource survivor supportPeer survivors who've walked this road; free, forever.
Make no irreversible financial decisions in the first months; get the free financial counseling firstFirst 6 monthsInsurance money attracts salespeople. The free counselors have no product to sell you.

Windows shift

Deadlines here state the general rule — your branch or situation can differ. When a date matters, verify it with your admin shop or the free official line at 800-342-9647 before you rely on it.

Free · Confidential · 24/7

Talk to someone who gets it.

Free, confidential, and on your side. Tell us a little and we'll point you to the exact help you need.

Connect Now Find my benefits