Veterans Pension

About This Program

The VA Veterans Pension is a needs-based benefit for wartime veterans — those who served at least 90 days of active military service with at least one day during a period of war — who are either age 65 or older, or permanently and totally disabled (not from a service-connected condition). Unlike VA disability compensation, the pension is based on financial need rather than service connection. Three benefit levels exist. Basic Veterans Pension is the standard payment for qualifying veterans with limited income. Housebound provides a higher amount for veterans who are substantially confined to their immediate premises due to a permanent disability. Aid and Attendance (A&A) provides the highest payment for veterans who need the regular aid of another person to perform activities of daily living — bathing, dressing, eating, toileting — or who are blind, in a nursing home, or bedridden. Aid and Attendance is significantly higher than basic pension — up to approximately $2,300 per month for a single veteran in 2024 — and is often used to help offset the cost of in-home care, assisted living, or adult day services. A surviving spouse may also qualify for a survivor's pension (DIC) with Aid and Attendance at lower benefit amounts. Income and net worth limits apply. VA counts income from most sources but allows deductions for unreimbursed medical expenses, which can significantly reduce countable income. Net worth is limited to $150,538 (2024), including assets but excluding your home and one vehicle. To apply, submit VA Form 21P-527EZ to your VA regional office.

Eligibility Requirements

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