Moskowitz Bill Prevents Veterans From Losing Pensions After Emergencies

WASHINGTON, D.C. — This week, Congressman Jared Moskowitz (D-FL-23) introduced the Veterans Pensions Protection Act of 2025, legislation that prevents veterans and their families from losing VA pension benefits because of one-time medical or injury-related payments.

Under current law, VA pension benefits are income-based, meaning one-time payments such as insurance settlements for medical expenses or compensation for pain and suffering can unintentionally count as “income,” resulting in reduced or lost benefits. Moskowitz’s legislation closes this loophole by clarifying that these payments should not be treated as income when the Department of Veterans Affairs determines pension eligibility.

“If a veteran is injured or experiences a serious loss, the last thing they should worry about is losing their pension,” said Congressman Moskowitz. “This legislation draws a clear line: compensation for harm is not income, and veterans deserve stability, dignity, and support during recovery.”

The Veterans Pensions Protection Act amends Title 38 of the U.S. Code to exclude reimbursements for medical expenses, including insurance settlement payments, as well as compensation for pain and suffering, from income calculations used to determine eligibility for VA pensions. The bill protects vulnerable veterans, surviving spouses, and children from losing benefits during medical emergencies or periods of recovery.

Without this clarification, temporary payments meant to help families recover from accidents or injuries can push them over income limits and reduce or eliminate pension benefits. The legislation ensures this support serves its intended purpose without undermining the financial stability of veterans and survivors.

For more information on the Veterans Pensions Protection Act of 2025, click HERE.