Federal Benefits Chart
Veterans Compensation and Pensions Overview
The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) provides compensation and pension benefits to certain disabled veterans who received an honorable or general discharge and whose disability is deemed to be “service connected.”
Key Decision Points
- 61 days of incarceration = veteran’s compensation reduced if individual was convicted of a felony; veteran’s pension benefits discontinued if individual was convicted of a felony or misdemeanor
- Within 1 year following release = VBA must obtain documentation of legal release for benefits to resume
Federal Funding Agency
Veterans Benefits Administration
Relevant State/Local Agency, Office, and Contacts
Use the space below to write notes about which state/local agency or office oversees this benefit in your area and any related contacts. You can print this page for your records or log in to save your response for future reference.
Features
Depending on need, the spouse, children, and dependent parents of an incarcerated veteran can apply to receive compensation that is withheld from the veteran during his or her incarceration.
Eligibility
- Health
- Other
Veterans who are partially disabled as a result of their military service may be eligible to receive monthly compensation. Wartime veterans with limited income who are permanently and totally disabled or age 65 or older may be eligible to receive a monthly pension. For veterans to be eligible for these benefits, the VBA must determine that the disability is “service connected.”
Examples
Incarcerated Veteran Outreach Initiative (N.Y.): Outreach workers from the New York State Division of Veterans Affairs coordinate with counselors from the state Department of Correctional Services and representatives of other state and federal agencies to develop a transition plan for veterans in New York correctional facilities beginning up to nine months prior to their release. Outreach workers assist in determining prisoner eligibility for veterans benefits and other VA services, including substance abuse treatment and health care, employment programs, and supportive housing.
The Justice Center does not endorse or promote any particular program.