How to Apply for VA Pension
Complete step-by-step guide to the pension application process. Learn what documents you need, how to apply online or by mail, and how to track your claim status.
When to Apply for VA Pension
Understanding the right time to file for VA pension can help you maximize your benefits and avoid delays. Apply as soon as you meet eligibility requirements to ensure you don't miss out on benefits you've earned.
Best Time to Submit Your Application:
- When you turn 65 years old (if you meet other requirements)
- When you become permanently and totally disabled (under age 65)
- When your income falls below the annual limit
- When you begin requiring assistance with daily activities
- When widowed as spouse of a wartime veteran
Why Timing Matters
Your pension effective date is typically the date the VA receives your complete application or the date you became eligible, whichever is later. Applying promptly ensures you don't miss out on benefits.
Intent to File:
Consider submitting VA Form 21-0966 (Intent to File) if you need time to gather documentation. This establishes your effective date while you complete your application - you have up to one year to submit.
Application Process in 4 Simple Steps
Determine Eligibility
Review pension requirements to ensure you meet wartime service, age/disability, income, and net worth criteria before applying.
Check Eligibility GuideGather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documentation including DD214, income records, medical expenses, and asset information to avoid delays.
View Document ListComplete Application
Fill out VA Form 21P-527EZ online at VA.gov, by mail, or with assistance from a Veterans Service Officer.
Start ApplicationSubmit and Track
Submit your completed application with all supporting documents, then track your claim status online or by phone.
Track StatusRequired Documents for VA Pension Application
Gathering all necessary documentation before you start helps prevent delays and requests for additional information
Military Service Documents
- DD Form 214 (discharge papers)
- Must show service dates and discharge characterization
- Proof of at least 90 days active service (or 24 months post-1980)
- Service during VA-recognized wartime period
Income Documentation
- Social Security Annual Statement (SSA-1099)
- Recent pay stubs and W-2 forms
- Pension/retirement statements (1099-R)
- Most recent federal tax return (Form 1040)
- Investment income statements (1099-DIV, 1099-INT)
- Rental income records
Medical Expenses Records
- Health insurance premium statements
- Prescription medication receipts
- Doctor visit copays and bills
- In-home care service agreements
- Assisted living or nursing home statements
- Medical equipment and supply invoices
Net Worth Documentation
- Bank account statements (all accounts)
- Investment account statements
- Property deeds and tax assessments
- Life insurance policy information
- Vehicle titles (excluding primary vehicle)
- Business asset valuations
Dependent Information
- Marriage certificate (if married)
- Birth certificates for dependent children
- School enrollment verification (ages 18-23)
- Medical records for disabled adult children
Document Preparation Tips
- • Scan documents in color at 300 DPI or higher
- • Save files with descriptive names
- • Keep original documents - submit copies
- • Organize chronologically with recent first
- • Ensure all pages are clear and legible
- • Use PDF, JPG, or PNG formats for online
- • Make backup copies before mailing
- • Include cover letter listing all documents
Choose Your Application Method
The VA offers several ways to submit your pension application
Apply Online
Recommended Method
- Submit from home 24/7
- Save progress and return later
- Upload documents directly
- Receive confirmation immediately
- Track claim status online
- Faster processing times
Apply by Mail
Traditional Method
- Complete paper forms
- Mail with supporting documents
- Keep copies for records
- Use certified mail for proof
- No computer needed
- Reliable delivery tracking
Apply with VSO
Professional Assistance
- Free expert guidance
- Help gathering documents
- Application form assistance
- Claims representation
- No cost for services
- Higher approval rates
Step-by-Step Online Application Process
Follow these steps to complete your pension application online at VA.gov
Create VA.gov Account
- Go to VA.gov and sign in or create account
- Choose Login.gov, ID.me, or DS Logon
- Complete identity verification process
- Provide Social Security number and photo ID
Start Pension Application
- Navigate to VA.gov/pension
- Click "Apply for Veterans Pension Benefits"
- Select "Start the Veterans Pension Application"
- Begin VA Form 21P-527EZ
Complete All Sections
- Personal information and contact details
- Military service information
- Marital status and dependents
- Income and medical expenses
- Net worth and assets
Upload Documents
- Scan documents in PDF, JPG, or PNG format
- Ensure files are clear and legible
- Upload DD214, income records, medical evidence
- Maximum 50MB per document
Review and Submit
- Review all information for accuracy
- Confirm documents are uploaded
- Read certification statement
- Submit application and save confirmation
Alternative Application Methods
By Mail:
Complete VA Form 21P-527EZ and mail to:
Department of Veterans Affairs
Pension Management Center
P.O. Box 5365
Janesville, WI 53547-5365
Use certified mail for proof of delivery
In Person or with VSO:
Work with a Veterans Service Officer who can help complete your application and ensure all information is included correctly.
Find a VSO:
- • American Legion
- • VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars)
- • DAV (Disabled American Veterans)
- • AMVETS
- • State Veterans Services
What Happens After You Apply
Understanding the timeline and process helps set realistic expectations
Average Processing Times
Standard pension claims: 3-6 months from date VA receives complete application
Factors affecting processing time:
- • Completeness of your application
- • Complexity of financial situation
- • Need for additional evidence
- • Current workload at Pension Center
- • Whether C&P exam is required
Priority Processing:
- • Veterans age 85 or older
- • Veterans in financial hardship
- • Terminal illnesses
- • Homeless veterans
Checking Your Claim Status
Online Tracking:
- • Sign in to VA.gov
- • Navigate to "Track Claims"
- • View claim status and required actions
- • See estimated completion dates
Status Phases:
- 1. Claim received
- 2. Under review
- 3. Gathering evidence
- 4. Review of evidence
- 5. Preparation for decision
- 6. Pending decision approval
- 7. Closed (decision made)
Other Ways to Check:
- • Call VA: 1-800-827-1000
- • Contact your VSO
- • Visit VA Regional Office
Common Reasons for Delays
What Slows Processing:
- • Missing required documents
- • Incomplete application information
- • Need for medical examinations
- • Service record verification issues
- • Complex income/asset situations
Prevent Delays By:
- • Submitting complete application
- • Providing clear, legible copies
- • Responding promptly to VA requests
- • Double-checking accuracy
- • Working with a VSO
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved for VA pension?
Processing times vary by regional office, but pension claims typically take 3-6 months to process. Complex claims requiring additional evidence or medical examinations may take longer. You can check your claim status online at VA.gov.
How much does it cost to apply for VA pension?
Nothing. There is no fee to apply for VA pension benefits. Be wary of companies that charge large fees to help you apply. Free assistance is available through accredited Veterans Service Organizations.
Should I apply online or with a VSO?
Both methods work well. Apply online if you're comfortable with computers and have all your documents organized. Work with a VSO if you want personalized assistance, have a complex financial situation, or feel overwhelmed by the process.
What if I don't have my DD214?
You can request a copy from the National Personnel Records Center or through VA.gov/records. The VA can also help you obtain your service records when you apply. Don't let missing records prevent you from starting your application.
Can I apply for pension and disability compensation at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for both. If you're approved for both, the VA will pay the higher benefit amount. Many veterans apply for both to ensure they receive maximum benefits.
What happens if my income changes after I'm approved?
You must report significant income changes to the VA. They conduct annual eligibility reviews, and you'll need to report current income each year. Benefits may be adjusted based on income changes.
Need Help with Your Pension Application?
Free assistance is available at every step of the process
Veterans Service Organizations
- • American Legion: 1-800-433-3318
- • VFW: 1-800-839-1899
- • DAV: 1-877-426-2838
- • AMVETS: 1-877-726-8387
VA Resources
1-800-827-1000
Benefits Hotline
Mon-Fri, 8 AM - 9 PM ET
Online Resources
- • VA.gov/pension
- • Find VA Regional Office
- • State Veterans Services
- • Submit questions via AskVA
Related Pension Resources
Learn more about VA pension eligibility and enhanced benefits