Disability compensation is a tax-free monetary benefit paid to Veterans who are disabled by an injury or illness that was incurred or aggravated during active military service. These disabilities are considered to be service connected.
For specific information concerning types of disability compensation benefits, eligibility, application process, and filing a Fully Developed Claim, visit www.benefits.va.gov/compensation.
The Department of Treasury has mandated that all recurring federal benefits be administered through either Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) or Direct Express Debit MasterCard. Compensation and pension beneficiaries can establish direct deposit through the Treasury's Go Direct helpline. Call toll-free 1-800-333-1795, or enroll online at www.GoDirect.org
To view up-to-date information on presumptive disability benefits and compensation, please reference the corresponding VA factsheet at www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/factsheets/serviceconnected/presumption.pdf.
Former POWs are eligible for VA compensation for disabilities related to their military service and captivity. For current information on compensation for POWs and how to apply for compensation, please visit www.benefits.va.gov/compensation/claims-postservice-pow.asp.
Veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange or other herbicides during military service may be eligible for a variety of VA benefits, including disability compensation for diseases associated with exposure. Your dependents and survivors also may be eligible for benefits. For specific and up-to-date information on Agent Orange Compensation eligibility, please visit www.benefits.va.gov/compensation/claims-postservice-agent_orange.asp
Veterans discharged under conditions other than dishonorable who served in the Southwest Asia theater of military operations may be entitled to disability compensation for certain undiagnosed illnesses, certain diagnosable chronic disability patterns, and certain presumptive diseases even though these disorders did not become manifest during qualifying service.
For up-to-date information concerning eligibility, requirements, and how to apply for Gulf War Veteran compensation, please visit www.benefits.va.gov/compensation/claims-postservice-gulfwar.asp.
For up-to-date information about the types of pensions offered by the VA to eligible Veterans, please visit https://www.va.gov/service-member-benefits/ or www.benefits.va.gov/PENSION/index.asp.
VA helps Veterans and their families cope with financial challenges by providing supplemental income through the Veterans Pension benefit. Veterans Pension is a tax-free monetary benefit payable to low-income wartime Veterans. For up-to-date information about eligibility requirements and how to apply visit www.benefits.va.gov/pension/vetpen.asp.
Veterans and survivors who are eligible for a VA pension and requires the aid and attendance of another person, or are housebound, may be eligible for additional monetary payment. These benefits are paid in addition to monthly pension, and they are not paid without eligibility to Pension. For the up-to-date eligibility requirements, details, and how to apply, visit www.benefits.va.gov/pension/aid_attendance_housebound.asp.
Page last updated: December 29, 2023
