What Is SMC-K? The VA Benefit Most Veterans Don't Know About

SMC-K — Special Monthly Compensation level K — is one of the most overlooked VA benefits. It pays an automatic $135.32 per month on top of your regular disability rating for the loss or loss of use of certain body parts. Most veterans who qualify never file for it because they don't know it exists.

What SMC-K Covers

SMC-K is awarded for the loss or loss of use of:

• A hand
• A foot
An eye
• A creative organ (including erectile dysfunction)
• A breast (including mastectomy for service-connected cancer)
• Other anatomical losses specified under 38 USC 1114(k)

How Much Does SMC-K Pay in 2026?

Each SMC-K award adds $135.32 per month on top of your regular VA disability pay in 2026. This is in addition to your combined rating payment — it does not replace it. You can receive multiple SMC-K awards: two qualifying losses means two SMC-K awards, adding $270.64 per month.

Example: 70% PTSD = $1,716.28/month + one SMC-K (erectile dysfunction) = $1,851.60/month.

The Most Common SMC-K Award: Erectile Dysfunction

Loss of use of a creative organ is one of the most common qualifying conditions — and the most overlooked. Veterans with service-connected PTSD, diabetes, hypertension, or other conditions that cause or are treated with medications causing erectile dysfunction may qualify. The VA requires that the ED be caused or aggravated by a service-connected condition, or caused by medication prescribed for a service-connected condition (many antidepressants and blood pressure medications cause ED).

Filing for SMC-K for erectile dysfunction does not require a separate C&P exam in most cases — your VA medical records documenting ED treatment or medication side effects are often sufficient.

How to File for SMC-K

Include SMC-K in your VA Form 21-526EZ claim, or file an Intention to File and then the full claim. Specify the particular anatomical loss and the service-connected condition that caused it. A letter from your treating physician is helpful.

SMC-K vs Higher SMC Levels

SMC-K stacks on top of your regular rating. It is different from higher SMC levels (L through R-2), which replace the regular disability pay structure entirely. If you have a higher SMC level, you may still receive additional SMC-K awards on top. Use the SMC calculator to see how SMC-K adds to higher levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SMC-K?

SMC-K is an extra monthly payment added to your regular VA disability rating for the loss or loss of use of specific body parts — hands, feet, eyes, or creative organs.

How much does SMC-K pay in 2026?

$135.32 per month per award, stacked on top of your regular disability rating payment.

Who qualifies for SMC-K?

Veterans with loss or loss of use of qualifying body parts including hands, feet, eyes, or creative organs (such as erectile dysfunction from service-connected conditions).

Does SMC-K stack with other ratings?

Yes — it is added directly on top of your combined disability rating, not in place of it.

Can I receive multiple SMC-K awards?

Yes — one award per qualifying anatomical loss.

Is erectile dysfunction a qualifying condition?

Yes — ED caused or aggravated by a service-connected condition (PTSD, diabetes, hypertension) or by medication used for a service-connected condition qualifies for SMC-K.