🍁 BenefitCanada

Veterans Affairs Canada disability benefits

FederalVeteransChecked October 2, 2026

Veterans Affairs Canada pays tax-free disability benefits to service members and Veterans with health conditions linked to their service. Depending on the benefit, you may get monthly payments for life or a lump sum.

How much

Depends on how the condition relates to your service and how much it affects your life. The main benefit is Pain and Suffering Compensation (monthly for life or a lump sum); some people receive a Disability Pension instead, which can increase with dependants.

When it's paid

Tax-free; monthly for life or as a lump sum, depending on the benefit and your choice.

Who qualifies

  • Canadian Armed Forces members and Veterans
  • Current and former RCMP members
  • Second World War and Korean War Veterans, including Merchant Navy
  • Certain civilians who served in the Second World War
  • You need a diagnosed condition that is related to your service

How to apply

  1. Get a diagnosis from a health professional
  2. Apply online through My VAC Account
  3. Or complete form PEN-923 and bring it to a VAC office, CAF Transition Centre or Service Canada
  4. Free help is available from VAC, the Royal Canadian Legion or the War Amps

What to have ready

  • Medical evidence of your diagnosis
  • Information showing the link to your service

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Not applying because a condition seems minor
  • Leaving out evidence linking the condition to service
Still being confirmed: Current dollar amounts are intentionally not listed (high-level overview). Check the official page for the latest details.

Official sources

Last checked against these pages on October 2, 2026.

Related

  • Disability Tax Credit (DTC)The Disability Tax Credit lowers the income tax paid by people with a severe and prolonged impairment, or by family who…
  • Canada Disability BenefitThe Canada Disability Benefit is a monthly payment for low-income working-age adults with disabilities. You need an…

Which of these could you get?

Answer a few anonymous questions and our AI checks federal, provincial and local programs for your household — with estimated amounts and how to apply. No name, SIN or address needed.

Start my free preview

BenefitCanada is independent and not affiliated with any government. This guide summarizes official sources in plain language; rules and amounts change, so always confirm on the official page before applying.