You will only be eligible for a veteran's pension if you fulfil the following criteria:

• You served at least 90 days of active military duty, at least 1 of which was during a wartime period. Anyone who enlisted after 7 September 1980 must serve for at least 24 months.
• You were not discharged for dishonorable reasons.
• You are 65 years or older, or are permanently disabled.
• Your family income is below a certain yearly limit.

Family income limits in 2007 ranged from $10,929 for a veteran with no dependants, to $14,313 for a veteran with a spouse or a child. Higher limits are given for veterans with additional children, or for those that are housebound or that need aid or assistance.

The Department of Veterans Affairs will pay you the difference between your countable family income and the yearly income limit. This difference is typically paid in 12 equal monthly payments rounded down to the nearest dollar. For example, if you are a single veteran with an annual income of $6,000, your annual pension rate will be $4,929 ($10,929 minus $6,000). This translates into a monthly pension check of approximately $410.

You can apply for a veteran's pension by filling out a Veteran's Application for Compensation Or Pension (VA Form 21-526). If necessary, you should attach copies of dependency records (marriage certificate and/or children's birth certificates) along with any current medical evidence such as doctor and hospital reports.