From a genelogical standpoint finding a pension application is invaluable. The sum,though small (my own ancestor was awarded first $25, then $50 and finally $100) was not exactly automatic. The applicant had to submit an application in writing (exciting to see ones own ancestors' handwriting and signature) to the pension board attesting to his disability by his service (accompanied by written "evidence of physician") and signed "proof of service-by comrades (2) if possible" sworn by a Justice of the Peace and a new application again with written "evidence of physician" for each pension increase. The applicant also had to swear that he didn't desert,had lived in Arkansas for the past 12 months owned no real property in excess of $400 and recieved any income in excess of $150 per year. These men were truly in indigent circumstances. Awarded a pension these men were allowed to draw a warrant signed by a state auditor.

From the application I learned that my ancestor:was literate-he signed his own name,his company and regiment and names of comrades (who signed his "proof of service" )
and obviously his finiancial and health status after the war.