SMC-O Requirements Explained: How to Qualify for This Powerful VA Benefit!

Looking for Expert-Level VA Claim Answers?📱Call Us Now! 737-295-2226

If you have certain serious service-connected disabilities, understanding SMC-O requirements can help you qualify for one of the VA’s highest compensation levels. 

Special Monthly Compensation Level O (SMC-O) is for veterans with severe conditions like the loss of both arms, complete paralysis of both legs with loss of bladder and bowel control, or total blindness with deafness. 

In this post, we’ll explain what SMC-O is, who qualifies, how to apply, and how much compensation you could receive. Let’s break it down.

Summary of Key Points

• SMC-O is one of the highest levels of Special Monthly Compensation (SMC). 

• It’s awarded to veterans with extremely severe, service-connected disabilities that often require daily care or assistance. 

• To qualify for SMC-O, you must already meet the requirements for SMC-L through SMC-N. 

• You don’t need to file a separate Aid and Attendance claim if you qualify for SMC-O, but the VA will only include it in your payment if there’s a documented need for personal care. 

What is VA SMC-O?

VA SMC-O is a higher-tier benefit designed for veterans with severe service-connected disabilities. 

SMC-O is often awarded in cases like: 

• Loss of both arms near the shoulder 

• Complete paralysis of both legs with loss of bladder and bowel control 

• Total blindness combined with deafness 

If you qualify for SMC-O, the VA automatically includes Aid and Attendance as part of your benefit when it’s one of the qualifying factors, giving you a higher monthly payment that reflects your need for care. 

Related Post: VA Special Monthly Compensation (SMC): What It Is and How to Get It! 

VA SMC-O Requirements

You may qualify for SMC-O if any of the following apply to you, as defined in 38 CFR § 3.350(e): 

• You’ve had both arms amputated so close to the shoulder that you can’t wear a prosthesis, or 

• You have complete paralysis of both legs, that’s resulted in being unable to control your bladder and bowels 

Or: 

• You have hearing loss in both ears (with at least one ear’s deafness caused by military service) that’s rated as 60% or more disabling, and you have blindness in both eyes, or 

• You have hearing loss in both ears (with at least one ear’s deafness caused by military service) that’s rated as 40% or more disabling, and you have blindness in both eyes with only the ability to perceive light, or 

• You have total deafness in one ear as well as blindness in both eyes, with only the ability to perceive light 

Or you have total blindness without the ability to see light, and: 

• You have deafness in both ears (rated as 30% or more disabling), or 

• You’ve had one foot amputated, or 

• You’ve lost the use of one foot (rated as 50% or more disabling), or 

• You’ve had one hand amputated, or 

• You’ve lost the use of one hand 

Or you have physically lost both eyes, and: 

• You have deafness in both ears (rated as 30% or more disabling), or 

• You’ve had one foot amputated, or 

• You’ve lost the use of one foot (rated as 50% or more disabling), or 

• You’ve had one hand amputated, or 

• You’ve lost the use of one hand 

Or you have 2 different disabilities or situations listed in the SMC-L, SMC-M, or SMC-N designations. 

What is the Pay for VA SMC-O?

As of 2025, SMC-O pays $6,689.81 monthly for a veteran with no dependents. Your monthly payout can increase significantly depending on your dependent status.

For example: 

• Veteran with one child (no spouse): $6,832.66 

• Veteran with a spouse: $6,903.42 

• Veteran with spouse and one child: $7,059.86 

• Veteran with a spouse and one parent: $7,074.86 

• Veteran with a spouse and two parents: $7,246.30 

Pro Tip: If you have additional children or your spouse qualifies for Aid and Attendance, check the added amounts table and include those in your total. 

See related: 2025 SMC Rates & Charts

How to Apply for SMC-O

In many cases, the VA automatically awards SMC-O if your disabilities meet the criteria. However, you can file a claim if you believe you qualify and haven’t been awarded SMC-O. 

You can apply for SMC-O: 

• Online at VA.gov, or  

• By mail using VA Form 21-526EZ, or 

• In person at the nearest VA regional office 

Conclusion

If your service-connected disabilities are severe, SMC-O can be life-changing, providing thousands more in tax-free monthly compensation. 

This benefit recognizes the serious impact of conditions like paralysis, multiple amputations, or combined blindness and deafness.  

Whether the VA awarded it automatically or you need to apply, understanding the requirements is key to getting the compensation you rightfully deserve. 

Additional SMC Guides

Want Expert-Level Support for Your VA Disability Claim? WE GOT YOUR SIX!

• VA Claims Insider is the #1 most trusted name in VA disability claims. 

• Work directly with a VA claims coach who can educate you to VA claim victory.  

• 25,000+ disabled veterans have served in our membership programs since 2016.  

• 30% average rating increase for veterans who complete our #1-rated Elite program.  

• 4.7/5.0 average rating out of 5,500+ total reviews; over 4,500 5-star reviews.

---

FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions

---

Author