VANCA helps Canadian veterans and families with 1:1 navigation, benefits guidance, and referral support for civilian transition, PTSD, injury, housing, and care

Pain and Suffering Compensation (PSC)

VACDisability and compensationNon-taxable

Many veterans tell us they felt overwhelmed at first.

In one sentence

Pain and Suffering Compensation () is ’s tax-free disability compensation for the non-economic impact of a service-related disability.

Who this is usually for

You may wish to explore this program if the following appear relevant: Current or former CAF members may apply for a diagnosed disability related to eligible service.

What it may help with

Tax-free recognition of pain and suffering.
Monthly lifetime compensation or a lump-sum choice where available.
Access pathway to treatment benefits for an entitled condition.

2 min read·Preparation time varies by situationScroll to explore, or reach out if you are unsure

What is this?

Pain and Suffering Compensation () is ’s tax-free disability compensation for the non-economic impact of a service-related disability. It recognizes pain, functional loss and the effect of the disability on quality of life. first decides entitlement - whether the disability is related to eligible service - and then assesses the extent of disability as a percentage. A person may generally choose monthly payments for life or a lump-sum option, subject to the rules that apply to the decision.

Do not promise approval or an assessment percentage.

Why someone might look at this benefit

You have a diagnosed physical or mental health condition connected to CAF service.

A previously accepted condition has worsened or its impact has changed.

You received a disability decision but do not understand entitlement, assessment or payment options.

You were denied and have new evidence or wish to understand review rights.

Who might qualify?

You may wish to explore this program if the following appear relevant: Current or former CAF members may apply for a diagnosed disability related to eligible service. requires medical evidence of a disability and evidence linking it to service. Entitlement can be full or partial depending on the degree of service relationship. Only or the appeal bodies can determine entitlement and assessment. Only Veterans Affairs Canada or the legally responsible decision-maker can determine eligibility.

Only the responsible organization can determine eligibility.

What this benefit may help with

Tax-free recognition of pain and suffering.

Monthly lifetime compensation or a lump-sum choice where available.

Access pathway to treatment benefits for an entitled condition.

A basis for reassessment if the entitled disability worsens.

Where this may fit in your transition

Stage 4 Stage 7

See the full Veterans Transition Roadmap

Typical process

Apply through My VAC Account, by mail, VAC, or an accredited representative.

Submit a disability-benefit application through My VAC Account or paper form.

Provide diagnosis, service information and evidence connecting the condition to service.

VAC may obtain service health records and request medical information.

A decision maker determines entitlement and assessment.

VAC issues a written decision and payment information.

The Veteran may request reassessment for worsening or use available review and appeal routes.

If you receive a decision

Review entitlement, assessment and effective date separately. Departmental review or VRAB may be available.

• Entitlement — whether the condition is related to service
• Assessment — the severity or percentage rating
• Effective date — when the benefit starts
• Calculation — how the amount was determined
• Approved services — what is covered and for how long
• Frequency or dollar limit — caps on treatment or services
• Reasons for denial — the specific basis for the decision

Every situation is different. Timelines vary based on the organization, the complexity of the application, and the volume of requests being processed.

What usually happens next

Application received

The organization typically sends a confirmation that your application was received.

Information requests

They may ask for additional medical, service, or financial records to support your application.

Review

A decision maker reviews your application, the evidence provided, and the applicable program rules.

Decision

You receive a written decision explaining the outcome, the reasons, and any review rights.

If approved

Benefits begin according to the program rules and the effective date stated in the decision.

If not approved

The decision letter explains why and describes your review or appeal options, including any deadlines.

Reassessment

If your condition or circumstances change, you may request a reassessment of the decision.

Reviews and appeals

Depending on the issue, you may request a departmental review or a hearing before the Veterans Review and Appeal Board.

Every situation is different. Timelines vary and are not guaranteed.

Evidence that may help

Diagnosis

service records

incident/exposure history

onset and continuity

functional examples

medical opinion.

Not every document is required for every application. This list is for general awareness only.

You may also want to explore

Treatment Benefits

VAC Treatment Benefits provide eligible Veterans with coverage for authorized health-care products and services.

Additional Pain and Suffering Compensation