Yes. Surviving spouses, dependent children, and certain dependent parents of veterans who died from a condition now recognised as presumptive under the PACT Act may be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation. Previously denied DIC claims may also be reopened.
The PACT Act expanded the list of presumptive conditions across burn pit, Agent Orange, and radiation pathways. When the cause of a veteran's death is now on a presumptive list, the VA presumes the death was service-connected for survivors who otherwise meet the eligibility criteria.
Eligible survivors generally include the surviving spouse, dependent children, and in some circumstances dependent parents. Eligibility rules differ for each category. Surviving spouses must generally have been married to the veteran at the time of death and meet duration-of-marriage requirements.
Previously denied DIC claims are a particularly important category. Survivors who were denied DIC before a condition became presumptive may now have a path to reopen the claim. The Supplemental Claim lane — VA Form 20-0995 — is the standard route for raising new and relevant evidence, including the new presumptive status.
Beyond DIC, surviving families may be eligible for VA survivor pension, education benefits under the Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance programme, home loan benefits, and CHAMPVA healthcare. Each programme has separate eligibility rules — outcomes depend on individual facts.
Related questions
Is DIC taxable?
No. DIC is a tax-free benefit.
How do I reopen a previously denied DIC claim?
Generally by filing a Supplemental Claim (VA Form 20-0995) with new and relevant evidence, including evidence of the new presumptive status under the PACT Act.
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Last reviewed by Cross & York Editorial Team.