The Veterans Affairs (VA) Surviving Spouse Pension is a tax-free benefit designed to help low-income surviving spouses of deceased wartime veterans. If you’re a surviving spouse of a veteran, you may be eligible for this pension, but there are specific requirements that must be met to qualify.
Eligibility Criteria for VA Surviving Spouse Pension
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Veteran’s Service Requirement
- The deceased veteran must have served at least 90 days of active duty, including at least one day during a recognized wartime period.
- The veteran must have been discharged under conditions other than dishonourable.
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Marriage Requirements
- The surviving spouse must not have remarried after the veteran’s death.
- If the surviving spouse remarried and the marriage ended (due to divorce, annulment, or death), they may still be eligible for the pension.
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Income and Net Worth Limits
- The surviving spouse’s annual income must fall below a set limit, which for 2024 is $9,896 for a spouse with no dependents.
- Net worth also plays a role in eligibility. As of December 2024, the surviving spouse’s net worth must not exceed $159,240.
Additional Considerations
- Age and Health Requirements: While there’s no age limit for the pension, the surviving spouse must be capable of managing their own financial and medical affairs.
- Residency Requirements: The spouse must be a U.S. citizen or a resident of the U.S., its territories, or possessions.
How to Apply for the VA Surviving Spouse Pension
If you meet the above eligibility criteria, you can apply for the pension by following these steps:
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Gather Documentation:
- Proof of marriage to the deceased veteran (e.g., marriage certificate).
- Veteran’s discharge papers (DD Form 214).
- Financial records that show income and net worth.
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Complete the Application:
- Fill out VA Form 21P-534EZ (Application for DIC, Death Pension, and/or Accrued Benefits).
- Submit the completed form to the VA for review.
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Wait for Processing:
- After submission, the VA will process the application and notify you of the outcome.
Important Note
Eligibility for the VA Surviving Spouse Pension is subject to change, so it’s essential to stay informed and check the latest guidelines from the VA. You can find more detailed information and apply through the VA website or by consulting with a VA representative.