Financing education is a growing concern for many Americans, with student loan debt reaching a staggering $1.7 trillion. Nearly 43 million Americans owe federal student loans, making financial aid a necessity for most students.
However, if you are a dependent or spouse of a veteran or service member, you may have access to additional education benefits that can help cover your costs. One such program is the Dependents’ Educational Assistance (DEA) program, which provides financial aid to qualifying individuals.
Eligibility
To qualify for the DEA program, you must be the dependent or spouse of a veteran or service member who meets specific conditions. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the veteran or service member must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Permanently and totally disabled due to a service-connected disability
- Deceased as a result of a service-connected disability
- Died in the line of duty
- Missing in action or captured in the line of duty for more than 90 days
- Forcibly detained or interned by a foreign entity for more than 90 days
- Receiving hospital or outpatient treatment for a service-connected permanent and total disability and is likely to be discharged for that disability
If you are the child of a qualifying veteran or service member, you can start claiming DEA benefits at 18 years old.
Requirements
The eligibility criteria differ based on whether you are the child or spouse of the veteran or service member.
Child Eligibility
- You can be married or unmarried
- You cannot be on active duty while using the benefits
- You cannot have a dishonorable discharge
- You cannot receive Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) while receiving DEA benefits
Spouse Eligibility
- You can receive both DIC and DEA benefits
- You will lose eligibility if you divorce the veteran or service member
- If you remarry after the veteran or service member’s death, you will lose eligibility unless:
- You were at least 57 years old and remarried on or after January 1, 2004
- Your new marriage ends due to death or divorce
Healthcare
In addition to education benefits, veterans themselves are eligible for several healthcare programs. Many of these programs offer reduced insurance expenses or specialized care, which can be a significant financial relief. Eligibility for these healthcare programs depends on various factors, including service history and medical needs.
Government assistance programs like DEA provide crucial financial support for dependents and spouses of veterans and service members. Knowing the eligibility requirements and available benefits can help you maximize your financial aid and reduce the burden of education costs. If you qualify, applying for these benefits can make a significant difference in funding your education.
FAQs
Who qualifies for DEA benefits?
Dependents or spouses of veterans meeting specific disability or death criteria.
Can I get DEA if I’m on active duty?
No, active-duty military members cannot use DEA benefits.
Do I lose DEA if I get married?
Children do not lose DEA benefits if they marry; spouses may if they remarry.
Can I receive both DIC and DEA?
Spouses can receive both, but children must choose one.
At what age can I claim DEA benefits?
Children can start claiming DEA benefits at 18 years old.
