Understanding the Different Levels of SMC Level O
Special Monthly Compensation SMC Level O bears the highest degree of severity. Consequently SMC Level O contains the highest SMC rates.
When you are trying to determine which category you might qualify for SMC, remember only one Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) rating can be given for Categories L through O. Category L is the lowest Special Monthly Compensation, and Category O is the highest. Pick the highest category that best fits the conditions.
Level O
The following conditions qualify for a rating under Level O:
- Amputation of both arms so close to the shoulder that it is impossible to wear a prosthesis
- Hearing loss in both ears (only one ear has to be caused by military service) that is rated 60% or more by the VASRD, and blindness in both eyes
- Hearing loss in both ears (only one ear has to be caused by military service) that is rated 40% or more, and blindness in both eyes with only the ability to perceive light
- Total deafness in one ear, and blindness in both eyes with only the ability to perceive light
- Complete paralysis of both legs with the inability to control urination and defecation
- Physical loss of both eyes and deafness in both ears (rated by the VASRD 30% or more)
- Total blindness without the ability to see light and deafness in both ears (rated by the VASRD 30% or more)
- Physical loss of both eyes and the amputation of one foot
- Physical loss of both eyes and the loss of use of one foot (rated by the VASRD 50% or more)
- Total blindness without the ability to see light and the amputation of one foot
- Total blindness without the ability to see light and the loss of use of one foot (rated by the VASRD 50% or more)
- Physical loss of both eyes and the amputation of one hand
- Physical loss of both eyes and the loss of use of one hand
- Total blindness without the ability to see light and the amputation of one hand
- Total blindness without the ability to see light and the loss of use of one hand
The current compensation tables can be found here on the VA Web site.
DENIED BENEFITS?
If you have been denied any of your VA benefits you have the right to appeal. The process can become complicated and overwhelming. We are here to help you win your appeal and secure all the benefits you deserve. Call our office today at 800-861-7262 for a free consultation or use our secure web email.
We will provide assistance for many types of issues on appeal, including, but not limited to: Dependency Indemnity Compensation, Agent Orange, Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), PTSD, and other mental health issues. Not included are Special Monthly Compensation issues.
This article is for educational and marketing purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship.