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Q424:  I have seen people that are 100% draw around $3000, and others draw around $5000.00 per month. Why the difference?  

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A1:  The difference most likely comes from any combination of dependents (spouse, children, parents living with the veteran), special compensation, aid and attendance, and other benefits that are not specifically or directly connected to the service-connected disability.  (HW)  5/26/20

     

A2:  Special Monthly Compensation. I personally draw SMC S and K which boosted my monthly compensation to about 400 dollars more a month. Some Vets draw more for themselves because of disabilities. Google SMC VA ratings.  (DH)  5/26/20

   

A3:   I don't know but if you can answer that I would like to know, you pose the question, so you must know the answer.  (TD)  5/26/20

     

A4:  100% is around $3,100.00 but add a wife and it only goes up by $125.00 a month for her. Higher figures arise when there are missing limbs, loss of sight complications which is around $3900.00 a month, and with a number of dependent children that can rise to around $5,000.00.  (KB)  5/26/20

       

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

       

A5:  From what I understand is some Veterans are rated at 100% and some are rated at 150%.  (RW)  5/26/20

    

A6:  The only way that you will get more is to have missing legs or hands. or blind. You have to have a lot of things wrong with you. It is called SMC.  (JP)  5/26/20

       

A7:  Service connected VA disability compensation monetary awards to Veterans varies tremendously due to several important issues. Its complicated - there are a multitude of different and specific physical and medical issues that the VA may link to a Veteran's military service for this Federal benefit; based on the specific diagnosed mental and physical injuries/disabilities/illnesses the VA recognizes as service-connected. Each of these are given a percentage by the VA based on the measurable severity of each of these issues, which corresponds to the monetary VA award posted on the VA website. For service-connected claims, the VA uses the DSM (Diagnostic Statistical Manual Vol 5 currently) and the Code of Federal Regulations (mostly Chapter 38); which are both available cost free to the public at the library or online. Each issues needs a current diagnosis, and proof that each issued claimed by the Veteran (or surviving spouse for DIC benefits) is service connected (unless it is Presumptive-which means the VA awards service connection to the specific issue without the Veteran providing the link of nexus to military service).

    

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

      

Its an ever changing system and fairly complicated for the average Veteran or family member, so it is wise (and proven statistically) to take advantage of the free expert assistance provided by your County Veteran Service Officer. We have valuable cost free handouts and resources to freely share and we live and breath the laws and procedures and policies involved with all of the county, state and federal benefits pertaining to our Veterans and their families . We are committed strictly to Veterans and their families and will work diligently to provide the best assistance possible for Veterans and their family members.  (KF)  5/26/20

    

A8:  There are multiple reasons such as Aid & Attendance, special monthly compensation or even retirement benefits. I would read the VA Benefits Book, State Veterans Benefit Book, VA website or contact a VA state benefits representative or Non-Profit veterans organization rep. like DAV,AmVets,or American Legion. There are more listings on the VA website that list the recognized services in your state. Lastly, if you can't find that information your physician can set up an appointment with a social worker at your medical facility.  (GS)  5/26/20

      

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

   

A9:  Usually, it has something to do with SMC Special Monthly Compensation. Which is granted to those with more severe service-connected injuries.  (SR)  5/26/20

     

A10:  They are receiving aid and attendance, housebound, paid for dependents, and special monthly compensation.  (RS)  5/26/20

  

A11:  SMC...Special Monthly Compensation.  (JD)  5/27/20