Special monthly compensation for veterans: What types are available?

Most veterans put their entire focus on getting VA disability benefits, but did you know there are other VA benefits and also special monthly compensation that you might qualify for? That's right, you could be leaving extra money on the table. Veterans should get familiar with how the VA works, taking into account all of the potential compensation that might be available – not just for service-connected disabilities.

In this blog, we'll cover what special monthly compensation actually is, along with the different types that are available. 

Here's what veterans should know about special monthly compensation:

What is VA special monthly compensation (SMC)?

According to the VA, special monthly compensation is a higher rate of compensation paid to veterans, along with their spouses, surviving spouses, and parents if they have certain needs or disabilities. The rates change periodically, so the following information applies as of October 2025.

The VA created special monthly compensation so that veterans can get paid beyond the typical rating scale for certain circumstances that require additional financial support. This covers housebound status, along with aid and attendance.

Here are the different types of special monthly compensation that are available:

• Levels K and Q: Special rate payments

  • Levels K and Q offer special rate payment variations that are paid in addition to other VA disability benefits. These levels could apply to the loss of the use of a hand, foot, or loss of vision or hearing. Here are details from the VA:

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• Levels L through O: Specific disabilities and situations

  • For veterans with more major losses of function, levels L through O recognize the need for aid and attendance. Here are the details and corresponding rates:

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• Levels R and S: Higher levels of need

  • For veterans with more severe disabilities, Levels R and S might apply. Level R can apply if the veteran needs daily help with basic needs such as getting dressed or eating. Level S applies to housebound status, if the veteran can't leave the house because of their service-connected disabilities.

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How to read the VA's tables

There's a lot going on in these tables, and to be honest: There is no easy way to read them, but getting connected is the first step. Our goal is to educate veterans that this information exists more than trying to give an exact dollar amount – so begin here, and keep investigating what you may be entitled to for special monthly compensation. 

Explore our custom tailored Nexus Letter packages 

If you're trying to prove your condition to the VA to earn service-connection, we're here to help. A strong VA disability benefits claim starts with proper documentation. With Nexus Letters, DBQs, chart reviews, and more – we're here to help you get what you need to file an effective claim. 

• Each veteran we work with begins by signing up for a chart review.

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