What Is Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)?
Special Monthly Compensation is extra compensation paid to Veterans who have very specific, severe disabilities or needs that go beyond the standard VA disability rating schedule.
Unlike traditional disability ratings, which cap at 100%, SMC compensates for loss of use, need for assistance, or specific combinations of service-connected conditions.
You may qualify for SMC if you:
- Lost the use of one or more limbs, hands, feet, or eyes
- Need regular help from another person for daily living (Aid and Attendance)
- Are confined to your home because of service-connected disabilities (Housebound)
- Have severe conditions such as paralysis or loss of reproductive function
- Suffer multiple service-connected disabilities rated at 100%
How the VA Determines SMC Levels
SMC is defined under 38 U.S.C. § 1114 and 38 C.F.R. § 3.350 – § 3.352. The VA uses letter designations (SMC-K through SMC-T) to represent different levels of compensation.
| SMC Level | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| SMC-K | Loss or loss of use of one hand, foot, or reproductive organ | Amputation, paralysis, loss of creative organ |
| SMC-L | Aid and Attendance (requires daily assistance) | Paralysis, severe TBI, blindness |
| SMC-M through SMC-O | Combinations of disabilities causing higher dependency | Multiple limb loss or blindness |
| SMC-R1 / R2 | Higher-level Aid and Attendance needs | Continuous care or in-home nursing |
| SMC-S | Housebound status | Confined due to service-connected disabilities |
| SMC-T | Traumatic Brain Injury requiring ongoing aid | Severe cognitive or neurological impairment |
Current VA SMC Rates (Effective December 2025 | Starting Jan 1, 2026)
💡 Note: Rates typically increase each year with the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). The following examples reflect 2026 average SMC base amounts. For the most recent update, visit VA’s official SMC rates page.
| SMC Level | 2025 VA SMC Amount | 2026 VA SMC Amount | Monthly Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| K | $136.06 | $139.87 | $3.81 |
| L | $4,767.34 | $4,900.83 | $133.49 |
| L ½ | $5,014.00 | $5,154.18 | $140.18 |
| M | $5,261.24 | $5,408.55 | $147.31 |
| M ½ | $5,623.00 | $5,780.19 | $157.19 |
| N | $5,985.06 | $6,152.64 | $167.58 |
| N ½ | $6,337.00 | $6,514.55 | $177.55 |
| O/P | $6,689.81 | $6,876.52 | $186.71 |
| R-1 | $9,559.22 | $9,826.88 | $267.66 |
| R-2/T | $10,964.66 | $11,271.67 | $307.01 |
| S | $4,288.45 | $4,408.53 | $120.08 |
These amounts are subject to annual COLA updates and may vary based on dependency status.
Aid and Attendance (A&A) and Housebound Benefits
Two of the most common forms of SMC are:
Aid and Attendance (A&A)
You may qualify if you need help with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, feeding, or using the restroom. This is one of the highest forms of SMC.
Housebound Benefits
You may qualify if you cannot leave your home due to service-connected disabilities. Unlike A&A, Housebound status does not require assistance from another person.
How to Apply for SMC
You do not need a separate claim for SMC. If evidence in your file shows eligibility, the VA should grant it automatically. However, many Veterans never receive it unless they request it explicitly.
To apply or request review:
- Submit VA Form 21-2680 (Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance).
- Provide medical evidence showing your limitations and level of dependency.
- Include statements from caregivers, family members, or healthcare professionals describing your daily assistance needs.
If your medical evidence supports SMC, the VA must either grant it or provide written justification for denial.
Appealing a Denied or Missing SMC Award
If the VA failed to consider SMC in your original rating or denied your request, you may have several options:
- You may be eligible to file a Supplemental Claim with new medical evidence (VA Form 20-0995).
- You might request a Higher-Level Review if you believe the VA overlooked evidence.
- You could consult with an accredited Veterans law attorney to ensure your case is properly documented.
Some Veterans discover they qualified for SMC years earlier and can recover retroactive pay dating back to the initial eligibility date.
Additional Benefits Linked to SMC
Veterans with SMC may also qualify for:
- CHAMPVA Healthcare for dependents
- Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grants for mobility needs
- Automobile Allowance for vehicle modifications
- Clothing Allowance for medical appliances
- Property tax exemptions at the state level
These benefits are designed to improve independence, safety, and quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Special Monthly Compensation
What is the difference between SMC and VA disability pay?
SMC is an additional benefit paid on top of regular VA disability compensation for Veterans with severe or multiple disabilities.
Do I have to be 100% disabled to get SMC?
Not always. Some forms of SMC, like SMC-K, can be granted even if your combined disability rating is below 100%.
Does SMC increase every year?
Yes. The VA adjusts SMC rates annually based on the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).
Can I receive both SMC and TDIU?
Yes. If your conditions qualify, you can receive both SMC and Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU).
How far back can retroactive SMC pay go?
If evidence shows you met SMC criteria earlier, retroactive pay can extend back to your effective date or the date of medical documentation.
Contact Berry Law
If you believe you qualify for Special Monthly Compensation or the VA failed to award it, Berry Law can help. Our team of Veterans serving Veterans understands how to identify overlooked SMC opportunities and pursue maximum back pay.
📞 Call 888-883-2483 or visit our website for a free consultation.
