This is how you make sure you keep getting paid!

First -> Go here to get the latest information.

I’m gone – you know they’ll stop that pay as soon as they can. So don’t wait around. Do it as soon as possible. I made a printable checklist for you to use too.

Report my passing to the VA

First things first, contact the VA and let them know I’ve passed. I don’t want them to come back later and take money from you for overpayment.

Filing for D.I.C.

Unless it’s changed, you should be able to file online. You’ll need to sign in using your ID.me account information.

Username: [email protected]
Password: Ripli1Moke2!

If it’s AFTER March 15, 2030 – it doesn’t matter how I died – that VA DIC money is yours.

If I passed away BEFORE March 15, 2030, they’re going to insist that to get your DIC, I must have passed from complications of MS. Don’t put up with that from them. If they give you any pushback, get an attorney. Not just any attorney – find one that’s VA Accredited. They understand the nuances of this stuff. Ask Corey to help you if this feels overwhelming – I know it can feel that way.

How the money works

I’m sad to say that my normal VA check will go away immediately. I wish it were different. Here’s how this works.

Beginning the day after I passed, you will receive a standard monthly tax-free amount. As of 2026, your monthly VA DIC check will be a flat base of $1,699.36 – plus a $360.85 premium if I held my 100% rating for 8 years before passing (if today is AFTER March 15, 2028). This money is 100% tax-free and will arrive every month regardless of your Social Security. We’ll assume I lived past 2028, so that’s $2,060.21.

CHAMPVA continues with no changes

You will keep your CHAMPVA health insurance for life, and it remains completely free of monthly premiums. You do not need to fill out a separate health insurance application when I pass. Once the VA processes the standard survivor paperwork, your account will transfer automatically. Just keep using your current card. Nothing changes (except now YOU get to argue with the doctors office when they screw up the billing).