For survivors

When a veteran has died,here is where to start.

Answer three short questions. The page will surface relevant educational articles and a generic list of survivor forms used in similar situations. This is educational only, not advice about your specific claim. Nothing on this page is shared with anyone. Everything stays in your browser.

1. Who is the survivor?

Who we are

We are not a law firm, VSO, accredited claims agent, or VA representative. We provide educational information only and encourage veterans to seek accredited help for individual claim advice.

The Veteran Benefit Desk™ is a veteran founded independent digital publication and education platform that helps veterans understand VA disability claims, ratings, evidence, and appeals using clear explanations, original research, and cited public sources.

If you are in crisis

If you or a family member is in immediate distress, dial 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, no cost.

Veterans Crisis Line site

Find an accredited representative

Survivor claims are typically straightforward but the documentation can be intricate. An accredited representative can help. Search the directory by state and type (attorney, claims agent, or VSO).

Find Help directory

This is an educational estimate and not a guarantee of benefits, ratings, or back pay. VA makes all final determinations. We are not a law firm, VSO, accredited claims agent, or VA representative. We provide educational information only and encourage veterans to seek accredited help for individual claim advice. The Veteran Benefit Desk™ is a veteran founded independent digital publication and education platform that helps veterans understand VA disability claims, ratings, evidence, and appeals using clear explanations, original research, and cited public sources.