What is the VA Pension program and how do veterans qualify?

The VA Pension program is a benefits program offered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that provides financial assistance to veterans who are aged 65 and older or are permanently and totally disabled. The program is available to veterans and certain surviving spouses of veterans who meet the income and other eligibility requirements as set out by the VA. In order to qualify for the VA Pension, a veteran must meet a specified level of service time. For instance, veterans who served during World War II must have had at least 90 days of active duty service with at least one day of service during a period of war. Other veterans who served during the Vietnam conflict must have had at least 180 days of active duty service with at least one day of service during a period of war. In addition to the service requirements, a veteran must also meet certain economic requirements. The VA determines this eligibility based on an income level called “countable income”. Countable income is any income (earned or unearned) that a veteran receives or is eligible to receive, minus any deductions that the VA allows. If a veteran’s countable income falls below the amount set by the VA, they may be eligible to receive a VA Pension. The VA Pension program provides vital financial assistance to veterans who have served our country, and those eligible should take advantage of this valuable resource. Any veteran or surviving spouse who believes they may qualify for a VA Pension should contact their county Veterans Service Office to learn more about the program and the eligibility requirements.

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What is the VA Pension program and how do veterans qualify?

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