Annual Payments for Medal of Honor Recipients

This week, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed legislation that would significantly boost the annual pensions of Medal of Honor recipients, ensuring greater financial support for America’s most decorated heroes.

The bill, which passed with a 424-0 vote, seeks to raise the pension from $16,880 to $67,500 per year. If the Senate approves the measure and the president signs it into law, the change will provide much-needed assistance to the nation’s living Medal of Honor recipients — a group that currently numbers around 60 individuals.

Supporters of the bill, including Reps. Troy Nehls of Texas and Chris Pappas of New Hampshire, highlighted that many Medal of Honor recipients often travel the country to speak at schools, veteran organizations, and civic events, often covering travel expenses themselves. The increased pension aims to help ease the financial burden associated with their frequent appearances and community service.

The funding for the enhanced pensions would come from the Veterans’ Affairs budget, utilizing disability compensation funds. To balance the financial impact, the bill includes a provision to extend certain pension limitations for veterans without spouses or dependents from 2031 to 2033.

The Medal of Honor, first established in 1863, is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government for acts of valor in combat. Since its inception, approximately 3,500 individuals have received the honor. The pension program specifically for Medal of Honor recipients began in 1916, initially granting $10 per month. Over the years, it saw increases to $100 monthly in 1961 and $1,000 monthly by 2002.