Claim Process & Benefits
Special Monthly Compensation SMC-K: Creative Organ and Extremity Guide
Special Monthly Compensation Category K (SMC-K) under 38 U.S.C. 1114(k) and 38 CFR 3.350(a) is an additional monthly payment granted for anatomical loss or loss of use of specific body organs and functions, most notably erectile dysfunction, loss of an extremity, or sensory impairment.
Go directly to the published source
This page explains a concept. It is not the current, authoritative list. Confirm details directly with VA before relying on anything here.
What is SMC-K and how it differs from regular compensation
Special Monthly Compensation Category K (SMC-K) is a statutory benefit created by Congress to compensate veterans for anatomical loss or loss of physical use of specific body parts or functions. Unlike percentage-based disability ratings that combine under VA math, SMC-K is paid as a fixed monthly dollar amount added directly on top of the veteran's base monthly disability compensation.
Qualifying disabilities under 38 CFR 3.350(a)
38 CFR 3.350(a) lists loss or loss of use of a creative organ, loss of use of a hand or a foot, and certain vision, hearing, and voice losses among the bases VA reviews for SMC-K. VA decides whether SMC-K applies.
Erectile dysfunction and the 0% rating interaction
Under DC 7522, erectile dysfunction, with or without penile deformity, is evaluated at 0%. VA reviews for SMC-K under 38 CFR 3.350. VA decides whether SMC-K applies.
Multiple SMC-K awards
Under 38 U.S.C. 1114(k), a veteran can receive more than one SMC-K award if they suffer multiple qualifying losses. For example, a veteran with service-connected loss of use of a creative organ and service-connected loss of use of a foot can receive two separate SMC-K monthly payments, subject to the statutory compensation caps established by law.
Evidence needed for an SMC-K claim
Establishing SMC-K requires medical documentation of the underlying anatomical loss or physiological loss of function, such as a Male Reproductive System DBQ, urology records, or neurological examinations demonstrating complete motor or sensory paralysis of an extremity. If the condition is secondary, a medical nexus letter linking the loss to a service-connected disability or prescribed medication is essential.
Related condition guides
Explore published rating criteria, evidence requirements, and diagnostic codes for related conditions.
Related guides
NEXT DIRECTIVE // PUT THIS GUIDANCE INTO ACTION
What would you like to do next?
Review CFR Criteria
Jump to the regulatory criteria section to evaluate the baseline requirements.
Add to Your Claim Summary
Track this condition and calculate your whole-person combined rating.
Calculate Combined Rating
See how multiple disability ratings combine under 38 CFR §4.25.