If a veteran is receiving non-service-connected pension and is rated 100% for prostate cancer and 70% for major depressive disorder, is he eligible for special monthly pension housebound benefits?

The veteran in this scenario is eligible for special monthly pension housebound benefits due to his combined disability ratings. When considering eligibility for these benefits, the total disability ratings play a crucial role. The combined ratings of 100% for prostate cancer and 70% for major depressive disorder would qualify the veteran under the criteria specified for housebound benefits.

For special monthly pension housebound benefits, a veteran must meet certain criteria, including having a single service-connected disability rated at 100% or being permanently and totally disabled due to multiple conditions. In this case, the 100% rating indicates that the veteran's prostate cancer is considered totally disabling. The additional 70% rating for major depressive disorder contributes to his overall disability level and reinforces the determination of his overall health situation.

While it is important to note that being "housebound" typically refers to the inability to leave one’s home without assistance or due to medical conditions, the eligibility for special monthly pension benefits primarily hinges on the disability ratings and total combined effects, rather than the veteran's current living situation or ability to leave home. Thus, given the information, the combined ratings satisfy the eligibility requirements for these special benefits.