Question:

Jim, I'm a 77 year old Vietnam veteran. My wife and I have been married for over 18 years. Due to Agent Orange exposure, I have been rated 100% Total & Permanent for almost ten years. I'm told that if I die (for any reason) after being rated 100% Total & Permanent for ten years, my surviving spouse will be eligible for DIC. I'm also told that she will be eligible for additional benefits under Section 1318. What is Section 1318, and what is the amount of the benefit, please? Thank you.

Jim's Reply:

Section 1318 is explained here https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/38/1318