The Department of Veterans Affairs administers three different pension programs for veterans and their dependents. Normally, a pension is payable only to those with low incomes, as determined by federal law.
The pension normally makes up the difference between a person's income and the income levels set by Congress. These income levels differ based on a veteran's number of dependents and change every year. The pension amounts are also higher if a veteran or dependent requires specialized medical care or is housebound.
All of these pensions are tax-free.
Medal of Honor Pension
Medal of Honor recipients are entitled to a pension for life. This entitlement is not based on income level or need. Congress set the monthly pension at $1,712.94 for 2025.
See: Medal of Honor Brings Benefits for Life
Veterans Pension
The Veterans Pension is a monthly payment to veterans with income below certain levels. The veteran must have served at least one day during a wartime period and be at least one of the following:
- 65 years or older
- Permanently and totally disabled
- In a nursing home
- Receiving Social Security disability
- Receiving Supplemental Security Income
Survivors Pension
Survivors Pension, also known as the "death pension," is a monthly payment to low-income, un-remarried surviving spouses and certain children of deceased wartime veterans.
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