Surviving Spouse

[AidandAttendance]

Does a surviving spouse need to be over the age of 65 also to be eligible for a nonservice connected service. She is currently 61 years old and her husband who had an honorable discharge passed away. Her income levels and net worth could qualify her for the max (apprx. $12,500) but does she need to be 65. I know the vet does but I can not find out anything about the age of a surviving spouse.

[Fit2009]

I don't think A&A either vet or spouse has an age limit - People seem to accept it as an accepted fact, but not only have I helped vets under 65 obtain the award, I can't find any basis for it in the regulations, for example:

M21-1MR, Part V, Subpart i, Chapter 1
This topic contains information on the eligibility requirements for Improved Pension, including

•   the definition of pension
•   types of pension
•   the requirement that new claimants qualify for Improved Pension, and
•   basic eligibility requirements for pension - check it out - NOWHERE is any age limit mentoned.

Everyone, let me know if you have the reference that shows an age requirement.
Thanks