Last week we discussed Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC). This week we’ll turn to another survivor benefit: Survivors Pension. While DIC is tied to service-connected causes of death, Survivors Pension is based on financial need.
What is Survivors Pension? Survivors Pension is a needs-based benefit paid to low-income surviving spouses and unmarried children of certain wartime Veterans. Unlike DIC, which is awarded when death is connected to military service, Survivors Pension is available when the Veteran served during a qualifying wartime period but passed away from non-service-related causes.
Basic eligibility To qualify, the deceased Veteran must have:
- Served at least 90 days of active duty, with at least one day during a wartime period (longer service requirements apply for later service eras).
- Been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
The 2025 net worth limit (assets + annual income) to be eligible for Survivors Pension benefits is $159,240. If you had $130,000 in assets and $5,380 in annual income for VA purposes, then your net worth would be $135,380. You meet the basic (financial) eligibility requirements.
For the surviving spouse or child, eligibility is income- and asset-based. VA sets a Maximum Annual Pension Rate (MAPR) that determines whether a survivor qualifies and how much they may receive. Deductible medical expenses can reduce “countable income” and increase eligibility.
Benefit amounts As of 2025, the base rate (MAPR) for a surviving spouse with no dependents is about $11,380 annually ($948 monthly). Higher amounts are available for those with dependent children, or if the surviving spouse qualifies for Housebound or Aid and Attendance status due to disability or need for daily assistance. If surviving spouse with no dependents meets the net worth requirement and has an annual income of $5,380, then the annual VA pension is $6,000 ($11,380 minus $5,380).
Why apply? Even though Survivors Pension provides less financial support than DIC, it can be an important safety net for survivors with limited income. Combined with Social Security, it may help cover living expenses, health care, or long-term care needs.
Final thoughts Like DIC, Survivors Pension is a recognition of sacrifice—but eligibility is not automatic. Each case depends on service history, income, and family situation. Families should not assume they do or do not qualify without checking. Your CVSO can help with an application, explain the income limits, and ensure the right documentation is included.
For many surviving spouses, Survivors Pension is the benefit that makes the difference between hardship and stability.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
