Are You Eligible for VA Veterans Pension? What to Know in September 2025

Veterans Pension program provides tax-free monthly payments to qualified veterans and their families, offering an important safety net in retirement or disability. But eligibility depends on strict service and income rules.
As of September 2025, here’s what you need to know about who qualifies and how to apply.
Not sure what financial aid is available to you? Get the details here!
Who Is Eligible for Veterans Pension?
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), eligibility is based on three main factors:
1. Service Requirements
-
At least one day of active duty during a recognized wartime period (WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Gulf War).
-
Veterans discharged after Sept. 7, 1980 must typically have served 24 continuous months.
2. Age or Disability Criteria
Applicants must meet at least one of the following:
-
Be 65 or older.
-
Be permanently and totally disabled.
-
Be a nursing home patient with a disability.
3. Financial Need
-
Household income and assets must fall below VA thresholds.
-
Exempt from countable assets: primary home, vehicle, and personal belongings.
-
Extra pension amounts are available for veterans with spouses or dependent children.
How to Apply for Veterans Pension in September 2025
Veterans can submit applications in several ways:
-
Online: Through the VA official website.
-
By Mail: Complete and send Form 21P-527EZ (Application for Veterans Pension).
-
In Person: At a local VA regional office.
-
With Help: Through a Veterans Service Organization (VSO).
Supporting Documents May Include:
-
Income statement Form 21P-0969.
-
Medical evidence (especially for Aid & Attendance benefits).
To speed up processing, veterans should submit an “essentially complete claim” with all required forms.
Filing Tip
If not ready to file a full application, submit an Intent to File (Form 21-0966).
This locks in an earlier effective date while you prepare the rest of your claim.
-
Related Articles
View all postsGet senior benefits assistance
