The Board granted an initial evaluation of 70 percent for major depressive disorder and a special monthly compensation (SMC) from February 4, 2025. The effective date prior to May 30, 2018, for the award of service connection for major depressive disorder was denied.

The deciding factor: The Veteran's symptoms most closely approximated occupational and social impairment with deficiencies in most areas, warranting a 70 percent rating; however, there was no evidence supporting an earlier effective date prior to May 30, 2018, for the award of service connection for major depressive disorder.

Claimed conditions

major depressive disorder

How they argued it

Secondary to another service-connected condition

Exposure basis

None

Rating assigned

70%

Decision date

November 14, 2025

Citation

25013998

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