VA Pension Calculator
Check your VA Pension eligibility and estimate your monthly benefit from your income, net worth and dependents.
VA Pension is a needs-based benefit for wartime veterans who are 65 or older, or permanently disabled, with net worth under $163,699. The amount is the difference between your Maximum Annual Pension Rate (MAPR) and your countable income. You do not need a service-connected disability.
VA Pension is based on financial need. Disability compensation is based on a service-connected condition, and it is a different benefit. Answer the questions below to check your eligibility and estimate your monthly pension.
Check Your VA Pension Eligibility
Estimated Pension
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The exact MAPR for this specific combination (dependent + Housebound) has not been verified here. Contact a VSO or the VA for your rate.
Asset transfers below fair market value within 3 years of applying can trigger a penalty period during which no pension is payable. This tool does not calculate the penalty. If you have made recent transfers, consult a VA-accredited attorney or a Veterans Service Organization (VSO).
Five requirements.
- Wartime service. At least one day of active duty during a VA-recognized wartime period. Combat is not required. Minimum length-of-service rules also apply.
- Age or disability. 65 or older, or permanently and totally disabled.
- Discharge. Other than dishonorable.
- Net worth. Under $163,699, counting assets and annual income, and leaving out your home, one vehicle and household furnishings.
- Income. Countable income below your MAPR.
| Rate (effective Dec 1, 2025) | Veteran alone | Veteran with one dependent |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Pension | $17,441 a year | $22,839 a year |
| Housebound | $21,313 a year | See VA's rate table |
| Aid and Attendance | $29,093 a year | $34,486 a year |
The calculation. Your pension is the MAPR minus your countable income. A veteran alone with $12,000 of countable income would receive $17,441 minus $12,000, which is $5,441 a year, or about $453 a month.
Medical expenses raise the pension. Unreimbursed medical expenses above 5% of the MAPR are subtracted from your income. Medicare premiums and the cost of home care or a care facility count. See how MAPR and the medical expense deduction work.
Pension or compensation, not both. If you qualify for VA Pension and for disability compensation, VA pays whichever is higher.
Asset transfers. VA reviews the 36 months before your claim for assets given away or sold below market value. A transfer can lead to a period of up to 5 years with no pension.
Rates change every December 1 with the Social Security cost-of-living adjustment. An accredited Veterans Service Organization will help you apply at no charge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the VA Pension net worth limit for 2026?
$163,699, for December 1, 2025 through November 30, 2026. It counts assets and annual income together and leaves out your primary residence, one vehicle and basic household furnishings.
Do I need a service-connected disability to get VA Pension?
No. VA Pension is needs-based and does not require a disability connected to your military service.
Can I get both VA Pension and VA disability compensation?
No. You receive whichever is higher.
What counts as wartime service for VA Pension?
At least one day of active duty during a VA-recognized wartime period. You do not need to have served in combat or in a war zone.
How is my VA Pension amount calculated?
Your Maximum Annual Pension Rate (MAPR) minus your countable income is your annual pension. Divide by 12 for the monthly amount. Unreimbursed medical expenses above 5% of your MAPR reduce your countable income.
What happens if I gave away assets before applying for VA Pension?
A transfer below fair market value within 3 years of applying can lead to a penalty period with no pension. Consult a VA-accredited attorney or a Veterans Service Organization if this applies to you.
This calculator gives a general estimate based on VA Pension rules and rates effective December 1, 2025. It is not a determination of eligibility. Asset transfers, medical expense documentation and other individual factors can change your benefit. For an official decision, consult a Veterans Service Organization (VSO) or apply through the VA.