What is the VA Veterans Pension?
The Veterans Pension is a tax-free, needs-based benefit for wartime veterans age 65 or older, or who are permanently disabled, with limited income and net worth. It tops your income up to the Maximum Annual Pension Rate set for your situation.
How is the pension amount calculated?
The VA subtracts your countable income from the Maximum Annual Pension Rate, or MAPR, for your household. The difference is your annual pension, paid monthly. Unreimbursed medical expenses above 5 percent of the MAPR reduce your countable income.
What are Housebound and Aid and Attendance?
These are higher MAPR levels for veterans who need extra care. Housebound applies when you are largely confined to your home, and Aid and Attendance applies when you need help with daily activities, each raising the maximum pension you can receive.
Is the Veterans Pension taxable?
No. Like VA disability compensation, the Veterans Pension is tax-free. It is separate from disability compensation, and you generally cannot receive both at once; the VA pays the greater benefit.