VA Pensions

VA pensions are tax-free monetary benefits paid to eligible veterans, as well as their spouses and children. To qualify for a pension, the veteran must have served during an eligible war period.

There are 4 types of VA Pensions.

Low-Income Basic Pensions

For Veterans, surviving spouses and surviving dependent children with low or no income.

1. Basic Veterans Pension: For no or low-income Veterans who served during an eligible war period.

2. Survivors’ Pension: Paid to low or no-income surviving spouses and surviving dependent children of a deceased Veteran.

Enhanced Pensions for Individuals with Health Issues

Enhanced pensions pay more money than a regular pension. They have many of the same requirements as a regular pension, in addition to specific health criteria.

3.  Housebound Pension: An enhanced pension for Veterans, surviving spouses, and dependent children who meet the requirements of a regular pension, and are confined to their home due to a permanent disability.

4.  Aid and Attendance (A&A): Another type of enhanced pension for Veterans, surviving spouses, or dependent children who require assistance with daily living activities (e.g., bathing, dressing, mobility, toileting, and eating) either at home or in a care facility. A&A can also be used to pay for adult day care. Read more about Aid and Attendance.

Pension Eligibility Requirements

Some important VA pension eligibility requirements include:

• For Veterans who served before September 8, 1980 – the Veteran served at least 90 days of active duty, with 1 day during an eligible period of war.
• For Veterans who served after September 8, 1980, the minimum service requirement is typically 24 months or the whole period they were called to service.
• The Veteran received an honorable, or anything other than dishonorable discharge.
• The Veteran is 65 years of age or older, or permanently disabled, in a nursing home, or receiving SSI.
• The surviving spouse was married to the veteran for at least 1 year or had a child with the Veteran.

Financial Requirements

The VA has strict financial requirements for VA pensions and complicated formulas to determine your eligibility and compensation amount.

To find out more about pension income and asset rules, and whether or not you qualify for a pension, give us a call at (720) 773 – 8969 and ask to speak to a Benefit Consultant.

Filing a Claim

While the pension program can be a financial lifeline, the application process can be confusing and slow if you’re not prepared.

Understanding the benefits’ income and asset requirements can be difficult due to the complexity of financial regulations.

Application mistakes and failing to include supporting documents may result in delays or denials.

Get Help with Your Claim

VBUSA has extensive VA claim experience. We have helped thousands of veterans and spouses get approved for benefits like VA pensions. Get personalized assistance from a VA-accredited representative. Call today at (720) 773 – 8969 to speak to a VA benefit specialist.