Overview
The Survivors Pension (sometimes called Death Pension) is a needs-based benefit for surviving spouses and dependent children of deceased wartime veterans. Unlike DIC, it does not require a service-connected cause of death — the veteran's death can be from any cause. However, it is income-dependent.
Eligibility Requirements
Veteran's Service Requirements
The deceased veteran must have had:
- At least 90 days of active duty, with at least 1 day during a wartime period
- OR at least 90 days of active service, entered active duty after September 7, 1980, and served at least 24 months or the full period for which called
Wartime periods include: WWII, Korean War, Vietnam Era, Gulf War (August 1990 – present).
The veteran must have been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
Surviving Spouse Requirements
- You were married to the veteran at the time of death
- You have not remarried (with some exceptions)
- Your countable income is below the Maximum Annual Pension Rate (MAPR)
- Your net worth is below the VA limit (currently around $155,356, adjusted annually)
Income Limits & Payment
The VA Survivors Pension is designed to bring your income up to a set level. The amount you receive is the difference between the MAPR and your countable income.
2025 approximate MAPR rates:
- Surviving spouse with no dependents:
$10,509/year ($876/month) - Surviving spouse with one dependent:
$13,754/year ($1,146/month) - Surviving spouse with Aid & Attendance:
$16,788/year ($1,399/month) - Surviving spouse with Housebound status:
$12,855/year ($1,071/month)
Example: If your only income is Social Security at $800/month ($9,600/year), and the MAPR is $10,509/year, your pension would be approximately $909/year ($76/month).
What Counts as Income
- Social Security benefits
- Retirement/pension income
- Interest and dividend income
- Wages from employment
Deductions That Lower Countable Income
- Unreimbursed medical expenses (this is huge — many surviving spouses have significant medical costs)
- Funeral and burial expenses (in the year they were paid)
Aid & Attendance Add-On
If you need the regular assistance of another person for daily activities (eating, bathing, dressing, toileting) — or you are a patient in a nursing home — you may qualify for the higher Aid & Attendance rate. This can significantly increase your benefit.
How to Apply
- Complete VA Form 21-534EZ (same form as DIC — the VA will evaluate you for both)
- Provide income information, medical evidence of disability (if claiming A&A or Housebound), and proof of the veteran's service
- Submit through a VSO, online, or by mail
Tips
- Always apply for both DIC and pension simultaneously. Use VA Form 21-534EZ — the VA will evaluate you for both. If DIC is denied, you may still qualify for pension
- Unreimbursed medical expenses are the key to maximizing pension. Keep receipts for every copay, prescription, medical device, and caregiver expense
- Net worth includes assets like bank accounts and investments, but NOT your home or personal vehicle
- The VA proactively reviews income annually. Report changes promptly to avoid overpayments
- Work with a VSO or accredited claims agent. Pension claims — especially with A&A — can be complex