Incarcerated Veterans

A veteran may not receive VA pension benefits while incarcerated for more than 60 days. The veteran's dependents, however, may receive a portion of such benefits. Failure to notify the VA of a veteran's incarceration will cause the loss of all financial benefits until any overpayment is recovered.

VA bendfits are restricted if a veteran, surviving spouse, child or dependent parent is convicted of a felony and imprisoned for more than 60 days. The disability compensation paid to an incarcerated veteran is limited to the 10% disability rate. For a surviving spouse, child, dependent parent or veteran whose disability rating is 10%, the payment is at the 5% rate. Any amounts not paid may be apportioned to the eligible dependents.

Payments are not reduced for recipients participating in work-release programs, residing in halfway houses or under community control. Overpayments for failure to notify the VA of a veteran's incarceration result in the loss of all financial benefits until the over payment is recovered.
 

Prisoners and Parolees

Veterans in confinement and parolees may be entitled to certain DVA benefits such as educational assistance, compensation, and job training. The Department of Veterans Affairs is making outreach efforts to assist veterans in these categories.
 

Source:
Department of Veterans Affairs