Are there any exclusions to income or deductions that may be made to reduce countable income?

Yes, there are exclusions. The following are examples of what may be excluded:

  • Public assistance such as Supplemental Security Income is not considered income.
  • Many other specific sources of income are not considered income, however, all income should be reported. VA will exclude any income that the law allows.
  • A portion of un-reimbursed medical expenses paid by the claimant after VA receives the claimant’s pension claim may be deducted. (These are expenses you have paid for medical services or products for which you will not be reimbursed by Medicare or private medical insurance.)
  • Certain other expenses, such as a veteran’s education expenses, and in some cases, a portion of the educational expenses of a child over 18 are deductible.

Show All Answers

1. What is VA Pension for veterans?
2. What are the Periods of War?
3. Who is eligible?
4. What is countable income for veterans’ pension eligibility purposes?
5. What about net worth?
6. Are there any exclusions to income or deductions that may be made to reduce countable income?
7. How does VA calculate your pension?
8. What are Aid & Attendance and Housebound benefits?
9. How do I apply?
10. If I am already receiving monthly payments or a service-connected disability can I get a VA pension too?
11. What are the maximum annual pension rates?
12. What if I am receiving DIC payments because my husband died in service or of a service connected disability?