Surviving Spouse

Make sure your family is aware of what they need to do, should you die.

Here’s a short checklist to start. More indepth information is available at the sites listed at the end of the checklist, and from the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Documents your survivors will need:

1. Your discharge certificate or DD 214 (link http://www.archives.gov/st-louis/military-personnel/index.html)
2. Your VA claim's number or Social Security number
3. Your death certificate
4. Government life insurance policy
5. a copy of all marriage certificates and divorce decrees (if any)
6. a copy of each child's birth certificate (or adoption order)
7. Your birth certificate to determine parents' benefits

Where to get help:

1. Department of Veterans Affairs
2. Email the VA (An informative pamphlet you can download)  (pdf at http://www.vba.va.gov/bln/dependents/quicktips.htm)
3. VA service representatives can answer questions about benefits eligibility and application procedures. Contact the nearest VA benefits office at 1-800-827-1000 from any location in the United States and Puerto Rico. VA facilities also are listed in the federal government section of telephone directories under "Veterans Affairs".

Survivor Assistance – including helpful booklets and pamphlets to keep all your information in one place.