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Increased Benefits and Expanded Eligibility for Veterans' Surviving Spouses.

This Act increases the monthly Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) for surviving spouses by changing the fixed amount to 55% of the total disability compensation rate. Crucially, it expands eligibility for DIC to survivors of veterans who were totally disabled for at least 5 years before death, down from the previous 10-year requirement. These changes aim to provide greater financial security and support to more veterans' families.
Key points
Benefit Increase: Monthly survivor compensation (DIC) will be calculated as 55% of the total disability rate, resulting in a higher and indexed payment amount.
Expanded Eligibility: The required period of continuous total disability for a veteran before death is reduced from 10 years to 5 years, allowing more survivors to qualify for benefits.
Proportional Payments: If the veteran's total disability period was between 5 and 9 years, the survivor benefit will be proportionally reduced based on the duration of that period relative to 10 years.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_414
Sponsor: Sen. Tester, Jon [D-MT]
Process start date: 2023-02-14
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Caring for Survivors Act of 2023

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_414.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-02-14.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Benefit Increase: Monthly survivor compensation (DIC) will be calculated as 55% of the total disability rate, resulting in a higher and indexed payment amount.
  • Expanded Eligibility: The required period of continuous total disability for a veteran before death is reduced from 10 years to 5 years, allowing more survivors to qualify for benefits.
  • Proportional Payments: If the veteran's total disability period was between 5 and 9 years, the survivor benefit will be proportionally reduced based on the duration of that period relative to 10 years.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Tester, Jon [D-MT].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Benefits