VA Pension Calculator

Needs-based wartime pension — a different benefit from disability compensation, with different rules.

This is not disability compensationRead first

VA pension is needs-based: it depends on wartime service, low income and limited net worth, and it has nothing to do with a service-connected condition. VA disability compensation is paid for a service-connected condition regardless of income. If you are looking for compensation rates, use the disability calculator instead.

At least 90 days of active service with one day during a wartime period. Service beginning after 7 September 1980 generally requires 24 months or the full period called for.
All countable income from all sources, before deductions — Social Security, wages, interest, retirement pay. VA compensation and SSI are not counted.
Out-of-pocket medical costs you actually pay — insurance premiums, prescriptions, in-home care, assisted living. Only the part above 5% of your base rate is deductible.
Assets minus debts. Your primary residence, its lot up to two acres, and a vehicle are excluded.
These are the two enhanced rates, and they are mutually exclusive. Aid & Attendance is the higher of the two and is the reason most pension claims are worth filing.

Fill in the questions and press Calculate Pension.

How pension is calculated

VA pension pays the difference between a ceiling and your income. Three numbers do all the work:

  • MAPR — Maximum Annual Pension Rate. The ceiling for your household and care needs.
  • IVAP — Income for VA Purposes. Your countable income, less deductible medical expenses.
  • Pension = MAPR − IVAP, paid monthly.

Which means high medical expenses can produce a pension even at an income that looks far too high — because they come off the income side before the subtraction. That is the single most under-used part of this benefit.

Estimates only, at the 2027 MAPR effective 1 December 2026. VA determines countable income, allowable deductions and net worth under 38 CFR Part 3, and a three-year look-back applies to asset transfers made to qualify. This is not legal advice. An accredited representative can review the specifics before you file.