Losing a loved one is always difficult, and financial worries can make it even harder. If you are the surviving spouse or dependent child of a wartime veteran, you may be eligible for a VA Survivors Pension. This monthly benefit provides financial assistance to help cover living expenses. However, there are specific eligibility requirements you must meet.
Who Qualifies?
To qualify as a surviving spouse, you must:
- Have been married to a veteran who received an honorable discharge
- Not have remarried after the veteran’s passing
- Meet income and net worth limits set by Congress
The veteran must have served during a recognized wartime period and meet one of the following service conditions:
| Service Period | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Active duty before September 7, 1980 | Served at least 90 days, with at least one day during wartime |
| Active duty after September 7, 1980 | Served 24 months or the full enlistment period, with at least one day during wartime |
| Officers starting after October 16, 1981 | Served at least 24 months of active duty unless previously enlisted |
When calculating eligibility, the VA considers all assets except your home, car, and most home furnishings.
Recognized Wartime Periods
The VA only grants pension benefits for service during specific wartime periods, including:
- World War II: December 7, 1941 – December 31, 1946
- Korean Conflict: June 27, 1950 – January 31, 1955
- Vietnam War Era: November 1, 1955 – May 7, 1975 (for service in Vietnam) or August 5, 1964 – May 7, 1975 (for service elsewhere)
- Gulf War: August 2, 1990 – Present (until determined by law)
VA Survivors Pension
Unmarried children of deceased wartime veterans may also qualify for a pension if they meet one of the following criteria:
- Under age 18
- Under age 23 and enrolled in a VA-approved school
- Have a disability that began before turning 18
How to Apply
There are four ways to apply for a VA Survivors Pension:
- With professional help – Accredited attorneys, claims agents, or Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) can assist with the application.
- Online – Use QuickSubmit through AccessVA for fast processing.
- By mail – Complete VA Form 21P-534EZ and send it to the Pension Intake Center in Janesville, WI.
- In person – Visit a VA regional office near you.
If you need extra time to gather documents, you can submit an Intent to File form to secure an earlier effective date for payments.
Additional Survivor Benefits
In addition to VA benefits, surviving spouses and children may qualify for Social Security survivor benefits if the veteran paid into Social Security.
Eligibility for spouses and ex-spouses:
- Age 60 or older (50+ if disabled)
- Married for at least nine months before the veteran’s death
- Ex-spouses may qualify if the marriage lasted 10 or more years
Eligibility for children:
- Under age 18 (or under 19 if still in school)
- Any age if they developed a disability before turning 21
How Long Does It Take?
VA claim processing times vary, but they are typically handled in the order they are received. Some applicants may qualify for priority processing based on financial hardship or medical conditions.
If you believe you meet the criteria, it is worth looking into your options. A VA Survivors Pension can provide crucial financial support during a challenging time, helping ease the burden of everyday expenses.
FAQs
Who qualifies for a VA Survivors Pension?
Surviving spouses and unmarried dependent children of wartime veterans.
What wartime periods are recognized by the VA?
World War II, Korean Conflict, Vietnam War, and Gulf War.
Can a dependent child receive VA pension benefits?
Yes, if they are under 18, under 23 in school, or have a disability.
How can I apply for a VA Survivors Pension?
You can apply online, by mail, in person, or with professional help.
Do VA benefits affect Social Security survivor benefits?
No, you can receive both VA and Social Security survivor benefits.
