Dane County Veterans Service Office Connects Surviving Spouses to Critical Benefits

December 16, 2025
execmedia@danecounty.gov, 608-800-1127
County Executive, Veterans Service Office

DANE COUNTY — Dane County Executive Melissa Agard today recognized the exceptional efforts of the Dane County Veterans Service Office (DCVSO) in supporting surviving spouses of veterans. Since the beginning of 2025, the office has identified and assisted 29 widows who were eligible for federal survivor benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, many of whom were previously unaware they qualified.

 

“Behind every veteran is a family who served in their own way,” said County Executive Agard. “The Dane County Veterans Service Office has gone above and beyond to ensure that surviving spouses are not left behind. Their compassion and proactive outreach are changing lives and honoring our promise to those who served.”

 

Through targeted outreach, DCVSO staff helped surviving spouses apply for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), a federal benefit provided when a veteran dies as a result of a service-connected disability, including conditions linked to Agent Orange exposure. One Dane County widow recently received a retroactive award of more than $355,000, along with ongoing monthly compensation of more than $1,650. Others received awards in the tens of thousands of dollars.

 

In addition to financial compensation, these successful claims open doors to other benefits such as health care, property tax credits, and burial allowances, providing long-term stability and support for surviving spouses.

 

“This special outreach effort for surviving spouses is above and beyond our day-to-day work,” said Dan Connery, Veterans Services Director. “Our mission is to make sure no eligible veteran or survivor misses out on the benefits they have earned. Every successful claim represents real relief and peace of mind for families who have already sacrificed so much. We are honored to assist where we can.”

 

The Dane County Veterans Service Office is the highest volume county office in Wisconsin for federal benefit applications submitted to the VA. In fiscal year 2024, the office helped veterans and survivors secure more than $122.7 million in federal benefits, including disability compensation, needs-based pensions, and survivor benefits, delivering a direct and ongoing boost to household stability and the local economy.