Service-Connected Disability Compensation and Nonservice-Connected Disability Pension

What is the Difference Between Compensation and Pension?

Compensation - The VA compensation program provides you monthly benefits if you are disabled because of an injury or disease incurred in or aggravated during your military service and for certain conditions which may develop after your release from active duty. These are considered “service-connected (SC) disabilities”. Benefits are authorized based upon the severity of your claimed disability(ies). If your service-connected disabilities are evaluated as 30 percent or more, you are entitled to additional allowances for your dependents. More information about disability compensation.

Pension - Disability pension is a program that provides financial support to wartime veterans who suffer from a disability and who have limited income. The disability does not have to have been incurred while the veteran was in the service; therefore, it is known as “nonservice-connected (NSC) disability” pension. The amount the VA will pay you under this program depends on the type and amount of income you and your family members receive from other sources. Payments are made to you to bring your total annual income, including other retirement and Social Security income, to an established support level. Countable income may be reduced by unreimbursed medical expenses. More information about disability pension.

Other Related Benefits

· Medical Benefits Package
· CHAMPVA
· Foreign Medical Program
· TRICARE
· Minnesota DVA Optical and Dental Assistance
· Minnesota DVA Subsistence Program
· Minnesota State Veterans Homes
· Agent Orange benefits