VA Claim/SMC/Speial Monthly Compensation
Published: May 31, 2020
M21-IV.ii.2. H.1.a. Definition: SMC
Special monthly compensation (SMC) is an additional level of compensation to Veterans (above the basic levels of compensation payable based on disability ratings of 0 to 100 percent) for various types of anatomical losses or levels of impairment due solely to service-connected (SC) disabilities.
M21 IV.ii.2.H.12.a.
Spousal A&A Criteria Increased compensation is payable to a Veteran by reason of the Veteran’s spouse being in need of A&A.
The spouse will be considered in need of A&A if he/she
Is blind with corrected visual acuity of 5/200 or less, in both eyes, or concentric contraction of the visual field to 5 degrees or less
Is a patient in a nursing home because of mental or physical incapacity, or • has disabilities causing a factual need for A&A as defined in 38 CFR 3.352(a).
Note: Special monthly spouse’s compensation may be granted by the authorization activity when the spouse’s nursing home status is confirmed, as discussed at 38 CFR 3.351(c)(2) and M21-1, Part III, Subpart v, 2.A.3.b.
M21- IV.ii.2.H.12.b.
Requirement for a 30-Percent Rating For additional benefits to be payable for a spouse, including for special monthly spouse’s compensation ratings, the Veteran must be entitled to compensation for disabilities evaluated as 30 percent or more disabling.
Reference: For more information on handling claims for additional compensation for dependents from Veterans with a combined disability rating that is less than 30 percent, see M21-1, Part III, Subpart iii, 5.L.1.f.
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