Benefits for a Military Wife When Her Husband Dies

As a military family, the loss of a loved one is a profoundly impacting experience, particularly for a military wife. This guide explores the various benefits and support systems available to a wife when her husband dies.

Death Gratuity, Life Insurance, and Salary Reimbursements

The benefits a military wife receives can vary depending on several factors, including whether the service member was insured, had enough time to retire, and whether they had signed up for the SBP (Survivor Benefit Program). Common benefits include:

Death Gratuity: A one-time payment made to the surviving spouse, usually around $100,000, though this can vary. Life Insurance: Service members are provided with a free life insurance policy through the Veterans Affairs (VA) Servicemembers Group Life Insurance (SGLI) program. For newly enlisted members, the coverage is $400,000. Note: Starting from November 8, 2021, new policies may have different coverage levels. Lifetime Benefits: If the husband had the opportunity to retire, he may be eligible for retired benefits, including some form of lifetime support. Unpaid Salary and Leave: The surviving spouse and family may be paid any salary up to the date of death and for unused leave. Additionally, the Air Force Bonus Repayment Program may reimburse transportation costs for the spouse and children to return to their home of record.

Publishing Insurance and SBP Survivor Benefit Program

Notably, if the service member purchased additional insurance, the spouse and family would be eligible for those benefits as well. The SBP Survivor Benefit Program is especially important for retired service members. If the husband was retired and had signed up for this program, the surviving spouse would receive 50% of his military retirement pay.

Funeral and Estate Matters

The military also provides assistance with funeral and memorial services. As a surviving spouse, you would be responsible for these arrangements. Additionally, you would receive full medical, dental, and educational benefits for yourself and your children, irrespective of whether the deceased service member had signed up for specific life insurance policies. In some cases, Social Security might provide benefits for children until they turn 18 or 23, should they still be in school.

For immediate financial support, the wife automatically collects the $400,000 SGLI policy death benefit.

Living on a Military Installation

Another important aspect for military families is the living situation. If the spouse and family were living on a military installation, they would no longer be eligible to reside there. However, the military does provide support in these transitions, including assistance with housing and additional benefits.

Emergency Leave for Funerals

If a soldier is deployed and his spouse dies, he may be entitled to emergency leave to return home and handle funeral and estate matters. This leave is specifically designed to support service members in times of difficult family situations.