SMC-K pays an additional amount per qualifying loss of use. It covers each single loss of use of a creative organ or extremity. It is paid in addition to your base compensation, up to a cap. 38 U.S.C. § 1114 and 38 CFR § 3.350 define the rules.
Qualifying conditions include loss of use of one hand, one foot, one eye (to light only), loss of both buttocks, deafness, aphonia, or loss of creative organ. You may receive up to three SMC-K awards for different losses.
Loss of use means no effective function remaining. VA evaluates medical evidence to determine whether a limb or organ has lost use. 38 CFR § 3.350 lists the criteria.
Medical evidence of service connection for the loss. Surgery notes, imaging, exam findings. Functional reports (physical therapy, VA exam) confirming loss of use. For creative organ, include medical records (e.g. orchiectomy note, infertility workup). No special form for SMC-K; file a standard claim with supporting evidence.
File VA Form 21-526EZ or equivalent. Include evidence of loss with the claim. Explicitly request SMC-K. VA does not automatically add it. No VA Form 21-2680 needed for SMC-K unless claiming Aid & Attendance concurrently.