VA Disability Benefits for Loss of Use of Feet

Are you unable to walk without a brace, a cane or a walker? You could be eligible for a VA rating for loss of use of feet – and possibly Special Monthly Compensation. Ratings for the loss of use of feet often qualify veterans to receive benefits similar to those due to veterans whose injuries have required amputation of that limb.

How Does the VA Define Loss of Use of Feet?

Under VA law, “loss of use” does not require amputation. Instead, it refers to the situation where the veteran’s remaining function in the foot is no better than  what a prosthetic device would provide if an amputation had occurred.  

More specifically, a veteran who is unable to balance or propulse (push off his or her foot) is entitled to a rating for loss of use. A veteran who cannot balance on his or her foot or push off with the foot to walk has no effective remaining function of the foot – and therefore should be considered as having loss the use of that foot. 

In fact, many veterans with intact limbs still qualify for benefits based on “loss of use” if their mobility and function are severely impaired. 

What Is the VA Rating for Loss of Use of Feet?

• 40% rating for loss of use of one foot under diagnostic code 5167 – this applies when the veteran cannot perform essential actions such as balance, propulsion, or walking without the aid of a brace, cane, or other assistive device. 
• 100% rating for loss of use of both feet under diagnostic code 5110 – loss of use of both feet is considered a total disability by the VA. 

Even where a veteran is already entitled to a 100% rating, a loss of use rating is useful as it qualifies the veteran for special monthly compensation above that 100% disability rate. 

Special Monthly Compensation for Loss of Use of Feet

SMC is a monthly benefit for veterans who have a severe impairment due to service-connected conditions; in this case, the inability to use one’s feet, whether it’s from radiculopathy due to a back condition, a permanent injury to the foot or ankle from service, or peripheral neuropathy from diabetes.

Attorneys Matthew Hill and Carol Ponton explain loss of use and how to get special monthly compensation for it:

For help obtaining compensation, please request a free evaluation here. Our VA disability lawyers are highly experienced in winning cases for veterans like you and may be able to help you, at no upfront cost.

SMC for Loss of Use of One Foot

Veterans who lose the use of one foot are eligible for SMC-K, which is paid in addition to any other compensation. See how to get SMC-K → 

SMC for Loss of Use of Both Feet

Veterans automatically qualify for SMC-L if they have loss of use of both feet. This is a significant increase over standard disability compensation, and it may be increased further if additional disabilities are present. See pay rates and requirements for SMC-L → 

Potential Increases

• SMC–M, M1/2, N: If other conditions (like blindness or loss of a hand) are also present. 
• SMC–O, R1, R2: If the veteran needs Aid & Attendance (A&A) due to multiple qualifying disabilities (e.g., loss of use of both feet plus another major impairment which would separately require a need for A&A). 

Do You Qualify for These Benefits?

When considering whether you may receive a disability rating for loss of use of feet, some questions to ask yourself are: 

• Can you balance on one foot without holding onto something for support? 
• Are you able to push off of one foot to take a large step? 
• Can you stand on your toes to reach a top shelf? 
• Do you require the use of a wheelchair or rollator? 
• Do you experience foot drop? Does your foot ever drag while walking? 
• Do you trip or fall often? 
• Are you able to go up and down stairs easily? 

You will need physician statements on mobility and ambulation, evidence of the inability to walk without assistance or danger of falling, and documentation of using assistive devices, braces, or wheelchairs. 

Keep in mind, the loss of use of your feet may also help you qualify for Aid and Attendance. If you require the assistance of a spouse or other person to help you with daily activities due to the loss of function in your feet, you may also want to consider filing for this special monthly benefit. And if you have been denied benefits, let us know! We help veterans with their appeals and win compensation increases.

Content Reviewed by

Shannon Brewer, Senior Attorney

Shannon was born on MacDill AFB in Tampa, Florida as the daughter of a U.S. Air Force Master Sergeant and a high school English teacher. She was a member of the University of Florida Law Review and published a case note on the Florida Privacy Amendment. She practiced land use and environmental law for several years but felt called to serve our veteran population and changed her practice area to veterans disability law.