Becoming a Caregiver
SCAADL
Caregivers (sometimes referred to as non-medical attendants) give up part or all of a salary or wage to care for loved ones. Because of this sacrifice of income, DoD provides injured servicemembers with Special Compensation for Assistance with Activities of Daily Living (SCAADL) to assist financially caregivers who provide nonmedical care, support, and assistance to the servicemember.
SCAADL goes directly to the servicemember, not the caregiver, and the compensation is not automatic. The branch of service will notify the servicemember if he or she is eligible, and if he or she wishes to apply, the branch of service will assist in the paperwork to get the compensation started.
Who is eligible for SCAADL?
An eligible servicemember:
- has a catastrophic injury or illness incurred in the line of duty;
- has been certified by a licensed physician to be in need of assistance from another person to perform the personal functions of everyday living; or
- would, in the absence of this provision, require some form of residential institutional care.
If you believe your servicemember is eligible for SCAADL, consult with his or her primary care physician to initiate the DD Form 2948.
When does SCAADL eligibility end?
SCAADL can last up to 90 days after separation from service or retirement, but it does not automatically transition to the VA caregiver compensation stipend, a similar program that requires a separate application to VA.
For more information, visit the VA website.