VA Disability

Non Service Connected Disability Pension

Veterans may be eligible for financial support if they have limited income when they have 90 days or more of active military service, at least one day of which was during a period of war as defined by the VA. They must be permanently and totally disabled for reasons neither traceable to military service nor to willful misconduct.  Payments are made to qualified veterans to bring their total income, including other retirement or social security income, to an established support level.  Countable income may be reduced by unreimbursed medical expenses. Pension is not payable to those who have assets that can be used to provide adequate maintenance.

For current rates, go to https://benefits.va.gov/compensation/

Service Connected Disability Compensation

Monetary benefits, called disability compensation, are paid to veterans who are disabled by injury or disease incurred or aggravated during active military service. The service of the veteran must have been terminated through separation or discharge under conditions that were other than dishonorable.  Monetary benefits are related to the residual effects of the injury or disease.  The amounts of the benefits, which are not subject to federal or state income tax, are set by Congress. Disability compensation is paid monthly.

For current rates, go to https://benefits.va.gov/compensation/

Veterans rated 30% or more disabled receive an additional amount for dependents, and there is additional special monthly compensation for many severe injuries, diseases and conditions.

Although a disability claim may be filed at any time, it is very important that recently discharged veterans file claims in a timely manner. Please refer all recently discharged veterans to the Veterans Service Office as soon as possible.

The payment of military retirement pay, disability severance pay, and separation incentive payments may affect the amount of VA compensation payable.