Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)

Special monthly compensation is paid on top of, or in place of, the regular schedular rate when a service-connected disability causes a loss the rating schedule does not price on its own. The levels are letters, and each letter is a fixed monthly rate. SMC-K is the one most veterans meet first. It is paid for the loss, or loss of use, of a hand, a foot, a creative organ, an eye, hearing in both ears, or the voice, and it is added to the basic rate at any rating from 0% to 100%. A veteran can receive up to three K awards. SMC-S, the statutory housebound rate, is paid when a veteran has one disability rated 100% and either further disabilities rated 60% or more, or is confined to the home by service-connected disability. SMC-L through SMC-O cover specific losses, such as both feet or both hands, blindness in both eyes, or needing regular aid and attendance. SMC-R is the higher aid and attendance rate, for a veteran who needs daily help with basic needs and already receives the O or maximum N rate. Rates for a veteran alone, effective December 1, 2025 SMC-K (added amount): $139.87 SMC-S: $4,408.53 SMC-L: $4,900.83 SMC-M: $5,408.55 SMC-N: $6,152.64 SMC-O/P: $6,877.12 SMC-R.1: $9,826.88 SMC-R.2/T: $11,271.67 Dependents raise each lettered rate. VA decides SMC from the evidence in a claim; there is often no separate form, and a rating decision can award it without being asked. Read VA's SMC rate table for the amount with a spouse, children or parents.