Changes to Veterans Benefits

Below are several changes that will result from the Veterans Benefits Act of 2010.  These  go into effect October 1, 2011.

1.  Burial allowance will increase from $300 to $700 for veterans who die while properly hospitilized by the VA.  Plot allowance will increase from $300 to $700 for those veterans who are eligible.  These changes apply to deaths occurring on or after October 1, 2011.

2.  There will be a COLA for dependent children under the age of 18 for surviving spouses getting DIC.

3.  Eligible survivors of POWs who are continuously rated 100% disabled for one year prior to death will be able to file for DIC benefits, regardless of when the POW died (current law states that the POW vet's death had to have taken place after September 30, 1999).

4. Retired military vets or veterans who have separated from active duty due to a catastrophic disability will begin getting compensation benefits from the date of the award, instead of from the first day of the next month after filing.