Open
Source verified August 11, 2026
Prisoner of War Benefits
Compensation for eligible former prisoners of war
Funding available
Varies by project
Deadline
Open continuously
Location
Canada
Overview
Prisoner of War benefits provides compensation for eligible former prisoners of war. It includes Prisoner of War Compensation for Veterans detained or evaded capture for at least 30 days before 1 April 2006, and the Detention Benefit for Veterans or CAF members detained by an enemy, opposing force or terrorist group.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase social or community impact
- Improve governance or administrative structure
- Strengthen organizational capacity
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- Public or Parapublic institution
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- All groups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Documents Needed
- Completed application form
- Service number or RCMP regimental number, if applicable
- Proof of detention or captivity dates
- Supporting documents for dependents, if applying for additional benefits
- Death certificate and estate documents, if applying on behalf of a deceased person
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Veterans
- CAF members
- Canadian merchant mariners
- Spouses, common-law partners and dependent children of former prisoners of war may also qualify in some cases
Who is not eligible
- People whose period of detention began before April 2006 for the Detention Benefit
Eligible geographic areas
- Canada
- Applications may be mailed to Matane, Quebec
How to apply
- Submit your application online through My VAC Account if you are registered.
- If you are not registered, register for My VAC Account.
- Download the application form, complete it, and mail it to Veterans Affairs Canada, PO Box 6000, Matane, QC G4W 0E4.
Processing and Agreement
- If you are not satisfied with a decision you may apply in writing for a review.
Additional information
- Prisoner of War Compensation is tax-free.
- The Detention Benefit is tax-free and may be paid to a qualifying estate if a will exists.
- Former prisoners of war may also qualify for Attendance Allowance or Exceptional Incapacity Allowance, if eligible.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Prisoner of War Benefits Program
What is the Prisoner of War Benefits?
Prisoner of War benefits provides compensation for eligible former prisoners of war. It includes Prisoner of War Compensation for Veterans detained or evaded capture for at least 30 days before 1 April 2006, and the Detention Benefit for Veterans or CAF members detained by an enemy, opposing force or terrorist group.
Who is eligible for the Prisoner of War Benefits program?
To be eligible for the Prisoner of War Benefits program, you must:
Veterans detained or evaded capture for at least 30 days before 1 April 2006
Veterans or CAF members detained by an enemy, opposing force or terrorist group while serving in the Canadian Armed Forces, for at least 30 days
Who can I contact for more information about the Prisoner of War Benefits?
You can contact Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) or by phone at 1-866-522-2022.
Where is the Prisoner of War Benefits available?
The Prisoner of War Benefits program is available across Canada.
Is the Prisoner of War Benefits a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Prisoner of War Benefits is a Grant and Funding
Who are the financial supporters of the Prisoner of War Benefits?
Prisoner of War Benefits is funded by Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC)