Closed
Source verified April 21, 2026
Prisoner of War Benefits
Compensation for eligible former prisoners of war
Funding available
Varies by project
Deadline
Open continuously
Location
Canada
Overview
This program provides compensation for eligible former prisoners of war and qualifying detained veterans or CAF members. It supports monthly or lump-sum payments related to captivity or detention, with applications available online or by mail.
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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 in some cases
Who is not eligible
- People whose captivity began after 1 April 2006 for the Prisoner of War Compensation benefit
- People whose detention began before 1 April 2006 for the Detention Benefit
- Survivors or children seeking benefits not allowed under the program rules
Eligible geographic areas
- Canada
- Applications may be mailed to Matane, Quebec
How to apply
- Step 1
- Choose the applicable benefit and complete the related application form.
- Gather the required supporting information and documents.
- Step 2
- Apply online through My VAC Account, if registered.
- Or complete the form and mail it to Veterans Affairs Canada in Matane, Quebec.
- Step 3
- Submit any additional supporting documents requested by Veterans Affairs Canada.
- Use secure messaging, phone support, or an in-person appointment if you need help.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed after submission and a decision is issued by Veterans Affairs Canada.
- If a decision is refused, applicants may request a written review.
- For some cases, the application may be redirected to the correct benefit program before a decision is made.
- Policies and rules are used to assess eligibility and determine the decision.
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?
This program provides compensation for eligible former prisoners of war and qualifying detained veterans or CAF members. It supports monthly or lump-sum payments related to captivity or detention, with applications available online or by mail.
Who is eligible for the Prisoner of War Benefits program?
To be eligible for the Prisoner of War Benefits program, you must:
Detained or captured for at least 30 days
Captured before 1 April 2006
Veterans, CAF members, or merchant mariners
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 Other Support
Who are the financial supporters of the Prisoner of War Benefits?
Prisoner of War Benefits is funded by Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC)