VA Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)
Quick answer
Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) is a higher rate of VA disability compensation for Veterans, and in some cases spouses, surviving spouses and parents, with specific needs or disabilities, such as loss or loss of use of limbs, blindness, being housebound or bedridden, or needing daily help from another person. SMC-K is added on top of any rating from 0% to 100%; the higher levels replace the standard rate.
How SMC fits with your disability rating
Most Veterans are paid the standard VA disability compensation rate for their combined rating. SMC recognizes losses and care needs that the percentage scale does not fully capture. VA uses letter levels:
- SMC-K is added to your basic compensation for any rating from 0% to 100%. VA says it can be awarded more than once (up to three awards) alongside basic and other SMC rates, except SMC-O, SMC-Q and SMC-R.
- SMC-L through SMC-O/P cover combinations such as amputation or loss of use of one or more limbs, loss of sight, being permanently bedridden, or needing daily help with basic needs like eating, dressing and bathing.
- SMC-S, SMC-R and SMC-T apply in other specific situations defined by VA; VA.gov lists the criteria for each level.
The exact rules for each level are technical and depend on how VA rates each condition, so a review of your rating decision is usually the starting point.
2026 SMC rates (Veteran with no dependents)
| SMC level | Monthly rate |
|---|---|
| SMC-K (added amount) | $139.87 |
| SMC-S | $4,408.53 |
| SMC-L | $4,900.83 |
| SMC-L ½ | $5,154.00 |
| SMC-M | $5,408.55 |
| SMC-M ½ | $5,780.00 |
| SMC-N | $6,152.64 |
| SMC-N ½ | $6,514.00 |
| SMC-O/P | $6,877.12 |
| SMC-R.1 | $9,826.88 |
| SMC-R.2/T | $11,271.67 |
VA publishes separate SMC tables for Veterans with a spouse, children or dependent parents. Confirm the current table on VA.gov for your household.
Evidence that tends to matter
- Medical evidence describing loss or loss of use of a hand, foot, limb or eye, or the level of daily assistance needed.
- Records showing whether the Veteran is housebound or bedridden and why.
- Statements from caregivers or family about day-to-day help (see what to expect at a C&P exam).
Common mistakes
- Assuming SMC is always granted automatically. Some levels are considered with a rating decision, but missing evidence about care needs can mean SMC is not addressed.
- Confusing SMC with the pension-based Aid and Attendance add-on.
- Not reviewing a decision for SMC issues before the one-year window to request a decision review closes.
Working with someone on your claim? Learn what a VA-accredited representative is and how to verify one before you sign anything.
Common questions
What is the SMC-K rate in 2026?
VA lists SMC-K at $139.87 per month, effective December 1, 2025, added to your basic compensation rate.
Can I get SMC with a rating below 100%?
Yes. SMC-K can be added to any rating from 0% to 100%. Other levels depend on the specific disabilities and needs involved.
Is SMC the same as Aid and Attendance?
Not exactly. Aid and Attendance on VA pension is a needs-based pension add-on. SMC is part of disability compensation for service-connected conditions, and some SMC levels are based on aid and attendance needs.
Can a surviving spouse receive SMC?
VA describes SMC as payable to Veterans as well as spouses, surviving spouses and parents with certain needs or disabilities. Surviving spouses should also review DIC add-ons.
What if VA did not consider SMC in my decision?
You may be able to request a Higher-Level Review if you believe there was an error, or a Supplemental Claim with new and relevant evidence.