KEY TAKEAWAYS The 2026 base DIC rate is $1,699.36 per month — a 2.8% increase effective December 1, 2025 — with additional amounts available for children, Aid and Attendance, and the 8-year provision. The "Widows Tax" was fully eliminated in 2023 — surviving spouses who receive both DIC and SBP payments no longer have their SBP reduced by the DIC amount. The 2026 Survivors … [Read more...] about VA Benefits for Surviving Spouses of Veterans: Your 2026 Guide
Military Family
US Military Bases in Europe 2026: A Guide for Service Members and Families
KEY TAKEAWAYS The U.S. maintains more than 40 military installations across Europe, with the largest concentrations in Germany, Italy, Poland, and the United Kingdom. Approximately 76,000 U.S. troops are currently stationed across NATO territory in Europe — near Cold War–era highs, following the surge after Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The Trump administration announced … [Read more...] about US Military Bases in Europe 2026: A Guide for Service Members and Families
How to Transfer Your GI Bill Benefits to a Spouse or Dependent
KEY TAKEAWAYS •You must submit the transfer request through the DoD's milConnect TEB portal before you separate or retire — you cannot initiate a transfer after leaving service. •To transfer, you must have completed at least 6 years of service and agree to serve an additional 4 years at the time of the request. •Spouses can use transferred benefits immediately, including while … [Read more...] about How to Transfer Your GI Bill Benefits to a Spouse or Dependent