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Several programs exist to aid the survivors of deceased veterans. In certain situations, these programs may interact with each other, preventing a full and appropriate financial recovery by the survivors. An example of this type of interaction is the application and administration of the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) and Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC).

The SBP was established by Congress and became effective September 21, 1972. SBP is a Department of Defense program that, under certain circumstances, provides for a monthly income to survivors of retired military personnel upon the death of a service member whose retired pay ceases the date of death. Survivors of members who die while on active duty and survivors of those recalled to active duty from retirement who die while on active duty also may be protected by the SBP.

Initially, a service member had to have served at least 20 years' active duty for his or her survivors to be eligible. After 9/11, Congress extended SBP eligibility to survivors of all service members who die in the line of duty.

SBP coverage is automatic for all active-duty members, including Reservists and National Guardsmen serving on active duty who have eligible beneficiaries. This is a gratuitous benefit: It does not cost the active-duty member anything. For the SBP to become effective, the service member's death must have taken place in the line of duty for an annuity to be payable if the member is not yet eligible for retirement at the time of death.