The Veteran is granted special monthly compensation at the intermediate rate between SMC-M and SMC-N with an additional single rating under SMC-K for loss of use of both hands, upper extremities, one foot (due to Skull Loss), and three lower extremities due to service-connected disabilities. The appeal was remanded for further development regarding need for higher level care.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's service-connected Major Neurocognitive Disorder resulted in the loss of use of both hands/upper extremities and one foot/lower extremity, meeting the requirements for special monthly compensation under SMC-M, SMC-P, and SMC-K. The need for a higher level of care was unclear based on current evidence.
- Claimed conditions
- Major Neurocognitive Disorder, Skull Loss
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- February 18, 2020
- Citation
- 20012717
This is a plain-language summary generated by AI from a public Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision. It can contain errors — always verify against the original. Read the original VA decision (opens in a new tab) using citation 20012717.
What this means for you
A grant means the Board allowed the benefit or issue identified in this decision. Review the original order: other issues in the same appeal may have a different outcome, and this decision does not predict another claim.
What you can do next
Use your own notice and decision stage. A remanded issue is not a final court-appealable denial. VA review guidance and CAVC filing instructions (U.S. federal; reviewed October 7, 2026).
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Board has determined that the Veteran is unable to self-sustain in the community due to his dementia and major neurocognitive disorder, requiring continuous supervision or instruction from his caregiver. The decision grants a Level 2 stipend under the PCAFC program.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Veteran's major neurocognitive disorder, including Alzheimer's disease and dementia (previously rated as cerebral manifestation residual of malaria infection), is now rated at the maximum 100 percent disability level effective June 27, 2024. The Veteran's CKD residual of malaria infection is also rated at the maximum 100 percent disability level effective June 27, 2024.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Veteran is granted a higher level of special monthly compensation (SMC) at the N12 rate based on his need for regular aid and attendance due to service-connected TBI with major neurocognitive disorder and PTSD.
- Whole decision: Granted
The Veteran is granted an increased Level 2 stipend under the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers (PCAFC) due to his need for supervision, protection, or instruction on a continuous basis.
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