The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers a variety of benefits to military families, including family-based survivor benefits. These benefits are designed to support the surviving family members of military personnel who have died while serving in the U.S. armed forces.
Family-based survivor benefits are available to the spouses and children of deceased military members, as well as parents in certain circumstances. These benefits can help ease the financial burden that comes with losing a loved one who served in the military.
To be eligible for family-based survivor benefits, the deceased military member must have been on active duty or in the Selected Reserve at the time of their death. They must have also died in the line of duty, which includes death due to disease or injury incurred while on active duty.
Spouses of deceased military members may be eligible for a monthly payment known as the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP). This payment is based on a percentage of the deceased member’s retirement pay and can provide financial stability for the surviving spouse. Children of the deceased member may also be eligible for this payment until they reach a certain age or get married.
In addition to the SBP, surviving spouses and children may also be eligible for other benefits, such as medical and dental coverage through TRICARE and education assistance through the Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program.
Parents of a deceased military member who had no surviving spouse or children may also be eligible for a monthly payment through the Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) program. This payment is based on the deceased member’s service and cause of death.
It is important to note that eligibility for these benefits may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the deceased member’s service and death. It is recommended that surviving family members contact the nearest USCIS office for assistance with determining eligibility and applying for benefits.
Losing a loved one who served in the military is a difficult and emotional experience. The USCIS is committed to providing support and assistance to the families of deceased military members through family-based survivor benefits. These benefits can provide financial stability and peace of mind during a difficult time.