Surviving Spouse + Dependent Benefit

CHAMPVA (Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs)

Health insurance coverage for spouses + dependents of P&T or service-connected-deceased veterans.

Eligibility

Spouse or child of veteran rated P&T (Permanent and Total) for service-connected disability
Spouse or child of veteran who died from service-connected cause
Surviving spouse who has not remarried

Coverage: Hospitalization, outpatient services, prescriptions, dental in some cases. Pays after primary insurance.

Note

Distinct from TRICARE which covers active-duty/retiree dependents. CHAMPVA is specifically for veteran-status-determined dependents.

How to apply

Submit VA Form 10-10d to the CHAMPVA Center.

VA.gov form / portal → Find a free CVSO →

In crisis? Call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line — 24/7 confidential. Family members can also reach the line; bereaved family members of fallen service members are specifically supported.

Other survivor + dependent benefits

About this guide

Survivor + dependent benefits are administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Always verify current eligibility + amounts at va.gov/family-and-caregiver-benefits before filing. CVSOs (County Veterans Service Officers) and VSOs (American Legion, VFW, DAV) file these claims for surviving spouses at no cost.