SMC is extra, tax-free VA compensation for veterans with serious service-connected conditions. Many who qualify never receive it because it isn’t always awarded automatically. VetComm helps you find out where you stand and build a complete claim.
Takes 2 minutes. No cost, no obligation.
We never ask for your VA.gov, ID.me or Login.gov password.
Special Monthly Compensation is paid on top of, or in place of, your regular disability rate. You may qualify in three main ways.
Regular help from another person to bathe, dress, eat, use the bathroom or stay safe (aid and attendance).
Of a hand, foot, eye, limb or creative organ — including conditions secondary to medication or injury.
Substantially confined to your home, or rated 100% for one condition plus others combining to 60%.
| Level | Common reasons | Current | From Dec 1, 2026 (est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMC-K | Loss of use of a hand, foot, eye or creative organ (add-on, up to 3) | $139.87 | $144.90 |
| SMC-S | Housebound, or 100% plus another 60% | $4,408.53 | $4,567.23 |
| SMC-L | Needs aid and attendance, bedridden, loss of both feet | $4,900.83 | $5,077.26 |
| SMC-M | Loss of both hands or both legs at the knee | $5,408.55 | $5,603.26 |
| SMC-N | Loss of both legs near the hip, total blindness | $6,152.64 | $6,374.14 |
| SMC-O/P | Loss of both arms near the shoulder, paraplegia | $6,877.12 | $7,124.07 |
| SMC-R-1 | O-level plus daily help from another person | $9,826.88 | $10,180.65 |
| SMC-R-2 / T | Skilled daily care at home, or severe TBI | $11,271.67 | $11,677.45 |
Rates for a single veteran with no dependents. A spouse, children or dependent parents add to the monthly amount. Source: VA SMC rates.
Your free check tells you which tier fits. Our claims team confirms it at your records review; if it changes, we tell you before anything else happens.
No one can guarantee a VA decision.
A 15-minute call to see which levels may fit.
We review your rating decision and medical records.
Forms, doctor guidance and statements, uploaded through QuickSubmit.
We follow up and walk you through your decision letter.
No. SMC-K can be paid on top of any rating from 0% to 100%. Other levels depend on your specific conditions and daily needs.
No. Like other VA disability compensation, SMC is tax-free.
Yes, you can file directly with the VA. VetComm is for veterans who want hands-on help building a complete, well-documented claim.
No. Only the VA decides. We make sure your claim is complete and well documented.
The 3.6% cost-of-living increase is expected to take effect December 1, 2026, with the first higher payment around December 31.
VetComm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Rates shown are VA rates for a single veteran with no dependents and are not a promise of any award.
VETCOMM offers a Money-Back Guarantee for veterans who follow the full process as outlined. When you sign up, you agree to allow us two attempts to help you secure at least a 10% VA rating. To remain eligible for a refund, you must attend all scheduled appointments with our team and complete your VA-requested C&P exams.
If your first VETCOMM-assisted claim results in a total VA rating increase of 10% or more, the goal of the course has been achieved and the guarantee is fulfilled. No refund is issued.
If your first claim does not lead to a 10% total increase, VETCOMM will assist you in filing a second claim.
If the second claim results in a 10% or greater increase, the goal has been achieved and the guarantee is fulfilled.
If your second claim also does not result in a 10% total increase, you have two options:
Request a full refund
Proceed with a third filing and waive your right to a refund
Filing a third claim fulfills the guarantee obligation, regardless of outcome. Many veterans require multiple filings due to documentation challenges or individual circumstances that affect how the VA awards ratings. While we assist in the process, approval decisions are made solely by the VA.
There are a few situations where the Guarantee Refund Policy does not apply:
Veterans with a 90% Total Disability Rating:
Due to how the VA calculates ratings, increasing from 90% to 100% is very difficult. VETCOMM will still assist with up to three (3) VETCOMM-assisted claims, but no refund will be issued if a 10% total increase is not awarded.
Veterans with an Other Than Honorable (OTH) Discharge:
Veterans with an OTH discharge can still file claims with VETCOMM. However, because of additional VA restrictions, we will assist with up to two (2) VETCOMM-assisted claims, and no refund will be issued if a 10% total increase is not awarded.