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Your guide to veterans support

VA Pension
A clearer place to start.

Monthly income for wartime veterans with low income and limited assets.

Free results · About 3 minutes · No account needed

The program at a glance
What it helps with
Veterans
Administered by
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Typical processing estimate
90–270 days
Cost to apply directly
Free

Your state agency decides eligibility and benefit amounts. This guide helps you get oriented.

The basics

Understand the support.

VA Pension is administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Up to $1,432/month for single veterans (2024)

Must have served 90+ days with 1 day during wartime.

Benefits depend on your household and the program’s rules. A possible match is a starting point, not an approval.

Who may qualify

Start with your household.

These are some of the factors the program considers. State rules and additional requirements may apply.

Income

120% of the poverty level

A general income reference. Deductions and state rules can change the applicable limit.

Your situation

Qualifying circumstances

I'm a veteran or active military

Where you live

Check your state’s rules

Your state guide brings together application links and local requirements.

Choose your state
Income reference

See how household size matters.

The 2026 federal poverty guidelines provide a reference point. This table is illustrative; confirm the program’s current limits with your state.

VA Pension illustrative income threshold in the contiguous US: 120% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Based on 2026 HHS poverty guidelines. Program effective dates, deductions and state rules may differ; confirm with the agency.

Household Size2026 FPLAnnual Limit (120%)Monthly Limit
1 person$15,960$19,152$1,596
2 people$21,640$25,968$2,164
3 people$27,320$32,784$2,732
4 people$33,000$39,600$3,300
5 people$38,680$46,416$3,868
6 people$44,360$53,232$4,436
7 people$50,040$60,048$5,004
8 people$55,720$66,864$5,572

Each additional person adds approximately $5,680 to the FPL base ($6,816 at 120%).

What to gather

A little preparation helps.

Your agency will confirm exactly what it needs. These documents are a useful place to start.

  • DD-214
  • Proof of income
  • Medical evidence of permanent disability
  • Marriage certificate

You do not need to upload documents or provide your Social Security number to take our free quiz.

Find your state

Your next step is closer to home.

Explore local requirements and where to apply for VA Pension.

View all 51 states and districts
Visit the official program website
Common questions

A few things to know.

What is VA Pension?

Monthly income for wartime veterans with low income and limited assets.

How much is VA Pension worth?

$3,600 to $16,000 per year. Up to $1,432/month for single veterans (2024)

What documents do I need?

You'll need: DD-214, Proof of income, Medical evidence of permanent disability, Marriage certificate.

How long does processing take?

90-270 days from submission.

How often do I renew?

Every 12 months.

Your next step

See what may fit your household.

Answer a few questions to explore your possible matches and free application links. No account needed.

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