For a spouse to receive DIC VA Benefits, a service connected disability or one presumptive of military service must be listed on the death certificate as a primary cause of death or a contributing cause of death.
Be sure the person that will sign the Veteran’s death certificate (at the funeral home or a medical person at a hospital) is aware of any and all service connected disabilities that could have caused or contributed to the Veteran’s death (Item 35, Part II on an Oklahoma Death Certificate).
This will help the spouse file a successful claim to receive VA benefits after the Veteran’s death.