Benefit Fact Sheet
VA Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) is an additional tax-free benefit that can be paid to veterans, their spouses, surviving spouses and parents. For veterans, Special Monthly Compensation is a higher rate of compensation paid due to special circumstances such as the need of aid and attendance by another person or by specific disability, such as loss of use of one hand or leg. For spouses and surviving spouses, this benefit is commonly referred to as aid and attendance and is paid based on the need of aid and attendance by another person.
Veterans, their spouses, surviving spouses and parents are eligible for VA Special Monthly Compensation.
2024 VA Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) rates effective December 1, 2023
Special Monthly Compensation Rate Payment Variations
Levels K and Q are special rates called SMC rate payment variations. We may add Level K to your basic SMC rate.
How to use the tables to find your monthly payment
Start with the Basic SMC rates table. Find the dependent status in the left column that best describes you. Then find your SMC letter designation in the top row. Your monthly basic rate is where your dependent status and SMC letter meet.
If you have more than one child or your spouse receives Aid and Attendance benefits, be sure to also check the Added amounts table, and add these to your amount from the Basic SMC rates table. Learn more about Aid and Attendance benefits
Special Monthly Compensation Rates for Veterans Without Children
Levels L through O cover specific disabilities and situations. Learn how SMC levels L through O are assigned
Level R may apply if you need daily help from another person for basic needs (like dressing, eating, and bathing).
Level S may apply if you cannot leave the house because of your service-connected disabilities.
Special Monthly Compensation Rates for Veterans with Dependents, Including Children
Levels L through O cover specific disabilities and situations. Learn how SMC levels L through O are assigned
Level R may apply if you need daily help from another person for basic needs (like dressing, eating, and bathing).
Level S may apply if you cannot leave the house because of your service-connected disabilities.
Note: The VA is required by law to match the percentage of cost-of-living adjustments made to Social Security benefits. These adjustments help to make sure that the purchasing power of your benefits keeps up with inflation.
How the VA assigns SMC levels L through O:
SMC levels are assigned based on very specific situations and combinations of situations, including:
- The amputation of one or more limbs or extremities
- The loss of use of one or more limbs or extremities (meaning you have no effective function remaining)
- The physical loss of one or both eyes
- The loss of sight or total blindness in one or both eyes
- Being permanently bedridden (unable to get out of bed)
- Needing daily help with basic needs (like eating, dressing, and bathing), also called “Aid and Attendance”
VA Special Monthly Compensation Rates:
https://www.va.gov/disability/compensation-rates/special-monthly-compensation-rates/