VETERANS PRESS: VA pensions are available to many

Veterans and their loved ones may face financial challenges from time to time. VA pension can provide some level of income security for economically disadvantaged wartime veterans and their survivors. 

Did You Know… 

• VA pension benefits are tax-free and can help you supplement your income or that of your surviving spouse and/or unmarried dependent child or children. 

• Applying is free-there is no charge to help you receive benefits you may have earned for your service. 

• You do not need to hire anyone to apply for a VA pension. Apply directly to VA or get assistance from a VA-accredited representative. 

VA Serves Veterans 

In gratitude for your honorable service to our nation, VA serves Veterans by providing benefits to help you take care of your family; buy, retain, or modify a home; earn a degree; start a career; stay healthy; and do so much more in life after the military: 

VA helps veterans and their families cope with financial challenges by providing supplemental income through pension benefits. Here are a few programs to explore: 

• Pension for veterans. Pension is a needs-based benefit program for wartime Veterans who are age 65 or older or have a permanent and total non-service-connected disability, and who have limited or no income. 

• Pension for survivors. Surviving spouses and dependent children of deceased wartime Veterans are eligible for monthly pension benefits if they meet the net worth and income requirements: 

• Enhanced or Special Monthly Pension. Veterans and certain survivors who are more seriously disabled may qualify for pension at the increased housebound or aid and attendance rate. 

All pension recipients must have a total family income that is under the limit set by Congress. Be cautious if someone offers to move your assets around in order for you to qualify for VA pension benefits — this could be a type of fraud directed to Veterans or their survivors who do not actually qualify for VA pension. 

If you qualify, you can receive your VA benefits easily and conveniently through direct deposit or on a prepaid debit card.

Find out how you can benefit 

Explore VA pension benefits, view current income limits and sample pension calculations, and estimate your benefit amount at VA.gov/pension. 

For local help and information: See the North Idaho Resource Directory section found in this publication.