Special Monthly Compensation

SMC levels in plain English

SMC stacks on top of your base disability pay. If you haven't already, start with your combined rating to know your base before adding SMC.

K

You've lost one body part, a hand, foot, eye, or reproductive organ, or can't use it. Stacks on regular pay.

S

"Housebound." You have one 100% rating plus 60% more, or you can't really leave your house.

L

Loss or loss of use of both feet, or of one hand and one foot, blindness in both eyes (light perception only), being permanently bedridden, or needing regular aid and attendance.

M, N

More severe losses, such as both hands (M) or both arms at the elbow, both legs near the hip, or total blindness (N).

½ steps

Intermediate rates (L½, M½, N½) when you have an extra loss that falls between two levels.

O

The most serious combinations, such as paraplegia with loss of bowel and bladder control, or two separate disabilities that each qualify for L.

R-1

You qualify for O (or N½ plus K) and also need regular aid and attendance.

R-2

You meet R-1 and need a higher level of in-home care from, or supervised by, a licensed health professional.

T

Traumatic brain injury that requires aid and attendance, for veterans who do not qualify for R-2. Paid at the R-2 rate.

Common questions