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VA Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) Calculator

SMC pays extra for specific losses and care needs — and it is one of the most frequently missed VA benefits. Check the statements that describe your situation to see which SMC levels may apply to you.

Check every statement that describes your service-connected situation. SMC is awarded on specific losses and care needs — not on a rating percentage.

Single statutory losses

Each of these can add an SMC-K award on top of your regular compensation — up to three at once.

Loss, or loss of use, of one hand or one footLoss of a creative organ (e.g. from a service-connected condition or its treatment)Blindness in one eye with only light perceptionDeafness in both earsComplete organic loss of voice (aphonia)

Loss / loss of use — limbs and vision

Loss, or loss of use, of both feetLoss, or loss of use, of one hand and one footLoss, or loss of use, of both handsLoss of use of both legs at a level preventing natural knee action with a prosthesisLoss, or loss of use, of both arms at a level preventing natural elbow actionLoss of both arms near the shoulder

Blindness (both eyes)

Blindness in both eyes with visual acuity 5/200 or lessBlindness in both eyes with light perception onlyBlindness in both eyes with no light perception

Severe combinations

Paraplegia with loss of bowel and bladder controlTwo or more independent conditions that each qualify at the SMC-L through N level

Housebound

One service-connected disability rated 100%, plus a separate, independent disability rated 60% or higherPermanently and substantially confined to my home by service-connected conditions

Aid & attendance / highest level of care

So helpless as to need the regular aid and attendance of another person, or permanently bedriddenI need a higher level of care — skilled or around-the-clock supervisionA traumatic brain injury (TBI) requires a level of daily care that would otherwise require hospitalization or nursing-home placement

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Frequently asked questions

What is Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)?

SMC is additional tax-free compensation VA pays for specific losses or care needs — such as loss or loss of use of a limb, blindness, deafness, needing the aid and attendance of another person, or being housebound. It is paid on top of, or instead of, your regular disability compensation depending on the level.

What do the SMC levels K through T mean?

SMC-K is an additive award for a single statutory loss (up to three can stack). SMC-L through P are higher rates for more severe losses and combinations. SMC-S is the housebound rate. SMC-R.1 and R.2 are the highest rates for veterans who need regular aid and attendance or a higher level of care, and SMC-T is for certain severe traumatic brain injuries.

Do I have to apply for SMC?

VA is supposed to grant SMC automatically when the evidence supports it, but it is frequently overlooked. You can claim it directly using VA Form 21-526EZ, and VA Form 21-2680 (completed by your physician) for aid and attendance or housebound benefits.

Is SMC based on my rating percentage?

No. Unlike regular compensation, SMC is awarded on specific factual patterns — anatomical loss, loss of use, blindness, deafness, aid and attendance, or housebound status — not on a combined rating percentage.

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