Beyond the percentage

The rating is not the ceiling. These are the benefits veterans most often leave on the table. Check every one against your file.
Money already owed to you
Loading your claim dates
Add-ons to an existing rating
SMC-K
+
39.87/mo (2026 rate)
Added on top of any rating, even 0%. Covers loss of use of a creative organ, including ED secondary to a service-connected condition or its medication. The single most commonly missed benefit; claim it explicitly, and up to 3 can stack.
P&T status
locks it in
Permanent & Total = no future re-exams, plus dependents' school benefits (DEA Ch. 35), CHAMPVA, and state property-tax breaks. If your conditions are static, ask for P&T explicitly, the rater won't always volunteer it.
Paths to more compensation
TDIU
pays 100% rate
Can't hold substantially gainful work because of service-connected conditions? §4.16 pays the 100% rate ($3,938.58/mo at 2026 rates) with one 60% rating, or 70% combined with one at 40%. File 21-8940 + employer form 21-4192.
SMC-S (housebound)
above 100%
One condition rated 100% by itself plus 60% more combined = automatic SMC-S, no housebound proof needed. Raters miss the statutory path constantly. Check your rating structure.
Aid & Attendance
SMC-L and up
Need regular help with daily activities, bathing, dressing, eating? Higher SMC levels pay well above the 100% rate. File 21-2680 with a physician's assessment.
Military retirees
CRDP vs CRSC
retirees only
CRDP restores retired pay at 50%+ (taxable, automatic). CRSC covers combat-related conditions at any rating (tax-free, apply through your branch). You must elect one, run the numbers every open season.
Latest official infoCurrent SMC rates ↗TDIU eligibility ↗CRSC (DFAS) ↗CRDP (DFAS) ↗Current base rates ↗
Plain-English guideSpecial Monthly Compensation