The regulation takes effect and VA pays the higher of DIC or Survivors Pension for applicable claims without delaying development of the lesser benefit.
Source summary
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs issued a regulation, effective Feb. 23, 2026, that will speed survivors’ claims by allowing
VA to pay the higher of Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) or Survivors Pension without first completing separate formal decisions for both benefits. DIC is typically higher and will generally be paid immediately, except when the claimant meets four specific conditions (surviving spouse with no dependents, residing in a nursing home, and applied for or receiving Medicaid), in which case Survivors Pension will be awarded. Veterans and survivors can contact the VA benefits hotline at 800-827-1000 for more information.