What is VA Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)?

🎖️ VALOR

How a Vietnam Veteran Won His Battle with the VA

Meet Veteran Frank Chappell, who came back from his tour in Vietnam and was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). He spent nearly a decade fighting the VA for benefits, almost gave up, but decided because he was “a little hard-headed” that he was going to get some help.

Watch another episode of our Veteran’s Stories series on YouTube and hear how Frank finally conquered his stressful battle with the VA.

Attention: Were You or a Loved One Deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan between 2003-2017?

If you or your family member suffered injuries such as loss of limb, loss of eyesight, required surgeries due to blast impacts, or experienced severe traumatic brain injuries due to sniper, rocket mortar, EFP, or IED attacks, you might be entitled to compensation.

Don't suffer in silence. Our experts are ready to help fight for the justice you deserve.

Call us at (855) 494-1298 to learn more.

⚖️ EXPERTS

What is VA Special Monthly Compensation (SMC)?

For some veterans, regular VA disability compensation isn’t enough to cover the significant impact of their service-connected disabilities. 

Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) is an additional benefit designed to provide extra financial assistance to veterans who require extra care and support.

Understanding SMC

SMC is different from regular VA disability compensation because it considers the veteran’s overall condition and the cumulative impact of their disabilities. 

There are various types of SMC (SMC-K through SMC-T) that cater to specific disabilities and needs.

Types of SMC and Eligibility

SMC-K (Special K)

• Purpose: Compensates for the loss or loss of use of specific body parts or functions.

• Eligibility: Veterans with service-connected disabilities like the loss of a hand, foot, sight, hearing, reproductive organs, or significant breast tissue, or inability to speak.

SMC-S (Housebound Benefits)

• Purpose: Provides support for veterans confined to their homes due to service-connected disabilities.

• Eligibility: Veterans with one service-connected disability rated 100% and another condition rated at least 60%, or those permanently housebound.

SMC-L to SMC-O

• Purpose: For veterans with severe disabilities requiring significant assistance with daily living.

• Eligibility:

  • SMC-L: Loss of both feet, blindness, or needing Aid and Attendance.

  • SMC-M: Loss of both hands or similar severe disability combinations.

  • SMC-N: Severe conditions like the loss of both arms near the shoulder.

  • SMC-O: Full paralysis or conditions requiring extensive care.

SMC-R1 and SMC-R2 (Aid and Attendance)

• Purpose: Provides compensation for veterans needing daily assistance with basic activities.

• Eligibility: Veterans with severe disabilities requiring personal assistance, with R2 needing a higher level of professional care.

SMC-T (Traumatic Brain Injury)

• Purpose: For veterans with severe TBIs needing exceptional care.

• Eligibility: Veterans with TBIs requiring regular, specialized care beyond typical Aid and Attendance needs.

How Much Does SMC Pay?

SMC payments vary depending on the type and severity of the disability. 

As of 2024, rates range from $132.74 per month for SMC-K to $10,697.23 per month for SMC-R/2 and SMC-T. 

For detailed payment rates, visit the VA’s 2024 Special Monthly Compensation Rates page.

How to Apply for SMC

To qualify for SMC, your disabilities must meet the criteria set by the VA. 

The VA should automatically consider you for SMC if your medical records indicate eligibility. 

If you believe you qualify but have not received benefits, be proactive in ensuring you get the help you deserve.

Steps to Apply

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure your disabilities meet the SMC criteria.

2. Gather Documentation: Collect medical records and evidence supporting your claim.

3. Submit a Claim: File your claim through the VA, including all necessary documentation.

Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) provides essential support for veterans with severe service-connected disabilities requiring extra care. 

Understanding the different types of SMC and how to apply can help you receive the benefits you deserve. 

If you think you qualify for SMC, take action to ensure you get the necessary support.

Want more info about SMC basics? Our Attorney Melanie walks you through a step-by-step YouTube guide below.

🗺️ TACTICS

VA Disability Benefits Trivia

Each week we ask a trivia question across platforms on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram, to test your knowledge on VA disability benefits.

Wanting the answer to last weeks question? Let’s recap…

Which type of evidence is crucial for proving service connection in a VA disability claim?

1. Personal testimony

2. Service treatment records

3. Post-service medical opinions

4. Award letters

The correct answer was (2) Service treatment records.

Service treatment records are crucial for establishing a direct service connection in a VA disability claim. These records document medical issues, treatments, and any incidents that occurred during military service, providing a foundation for linking a current disability to military service.

While personal testimony and post-service medical opinions can support the claim, service treatment records often serve as the most compelling evidence for proving the initial service connection.

Now… take a shot at this weeks question and find out the answer next week! See you then.

🦅 SUPPORT

One Veterans Path to Service Connection for a Skin Disorder Due to Undiagnosed Illness

Note: All identifying info is fictitious to protect the identity of our client.

Summary of Claim

The Board of Veterans' Appeals reviewed a case where a veteran, represented by the North Carolina Division of Veterans Affairs, sought service connection for a skin disorder related to his service in Southwest Asia during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm.

The Outcome

The veteran was granted service connection for a skin disorder manifested by recurrent rashes due to an undiagnosed illness incurred during service.

How Did They Win?

The veteran supported his claim with compelling evidence, including:

• Service medical records documenting in-service skin issues.

• Post-service medical evidence of ongoing skin problems.

• Credible testimonies from the veteran and his wife about the persistent nature of his rashes.

Do you need help filing an appeal? Call us at (855) 494-1298.