Inquiry Routing & Information System (IRIS)

Contact the VA Home    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)    Ask a Question   hide accessible links     FAQ Help     Topic Topic Level 1 : Topic Level 2 : Topic Level 3 : Topic Level 4 : Topic Level 5 : Topic Level 6 :      Search Text (optional)   Search Tips      Search By      Exact Search Similar Phrases Complex Expression       Date Created   05/08/2006 06:32 PM   Last Updated   07/26/2006 08:10 AM    Print Answer/FAQ    Email Answer      Are VA disability compensation and VA pension the same?   Inquiry   What is the difference between VA disability compensation and VA pension?   Answer   VA compensation and a VA pension are not the same thing. The simplest explanation is that VA compensation is a benefit paid on the basis of the kind and severity of a disability that happened as a result of your active duty in military service. VA pension is a benefit paid on the basis of a disability that was not a result of active service in the military, or because of age. Pension is also based on income. There are other criteria that may apply to deciding eligibility for VA pension. That's why it is a good idea to contact a representative at VA regional office to discuss your situation, or go to a national, state, or local veterans service organization for help. The VA regional office may be contacted via: Telephone at: 1-800-827-1000. Internet web messaging at: https://iris.va.gov . In person or mail at an address you can locate at: http://www1.va.gov/directory/guide/division_flsh.asp?isFlash=1&dnum=3 A list of veterans services officers may be found at: http://www1.va.gov/vso/ .     How well did this answer your question?   100% 75% 50% 25% 0%        Related Answers/FAQs   •  Compensation & Pension Benefits •  What are the Veteran Non-Service Connected Pension Rates ? •  How long will it take to receive a decision on my compensation claim? •  How much does VA pay for pension benefits? •  Can I get back compensation payments?     Previously Viewed Answers/FAQs   •  Can I be paid retroactively to when I was discharged? •  What if I have another disability not previously claimed? •  Never filed for compensation. How do I file a claim for VA disability compensation? •  What should I do if I think an error was made on a previous disability decision? •  Are there other VA benefits related to compensation?   Back to Search Results