2026 SMC Monthly Rates
| SMC Level | 2026 Monthly Rate | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| K | +$133.17 | Loss/loss of use of a creative organ, foot, hand, thumb, etc. Added on top of other compensation. |
| L | $4,278.12 | Loss/loss of use of both feet, or both hands, or one hand + one foot; blindness in both eyes with visual acuity of 5/200 or less; or 100% rating + need for regular A&A. |
| L½ | $4,398.50 | Intermediate between L and M. |
| M | $4,518.88 | Loss/loss of use of one foot + blindness in both eyes with visual acuity 5/200 or less; or bilateral blindness (light perception only) + 100% rating requiring A&A. |
| M½ | $4,640.57 | Intermediate between M and N. |
| N | $4,762.27 | Amputation at or above the elbow AND at or above the knee; or combinations of high-level amputations. |
| N½ | $4,995.49 | Intermediate between N and O. |
| O / P | $5,228.73 | Multiple severe losses; complete blindness in both eyes. O and P are equal dollar amounts. |
| R1 | $9,078.49 | Requires regular aid and attendance of another person. Must already be at level O, N, or M. |
| R2 | $9,990.92 | Requires daily skilled nursing care or the equivalent. Highest SMC level. |
| S (Housebound) | $4,810.89 | 100% rating + 60%+ additional separate disability; OR permanently housebound. Substantial gainful employment impossible. |
| T | $10,756.05 | Catastrophic disability (e.g., severe TBI requiring 24-hour care). Newest SMC tier. |
All amounts effective December 1, 2025 (2.8% COLA). Source: VA.gov. Verify current rates at va.gov/disability/compensation-rates/special-monthly-compensation-rates/.
SMC-K: The Most Under-Claimed SMC
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for SMC?
SMC is not automatically awarded. You must notify the VA that you believe you qualify. File a claim through VA.gov or your VSO, identifying the specific SMC tier you believe applies. Include medical documentation of the qualifying conditions. A VSO can identify which tier fits your situation.
Can I receive SMC if I'm already at 100% P&T?
Yes — SMC is in addition to your 100% rating compensation. The SMC rate replaces your standard rating pay (since it's higher), except for SMC-K which is added on top. Veterans at 100% with severe secondary conditions often qualify for SMC-S (housebound) or higher levels.
What is the statutory basis for SMC?
Special Monthly Compensation is authorized under 38 USC §1114. The regulatory implementation is at 38 CFR §3.350. Each SMC level (K through T) has specific statutory requirements that must be documented and met.