SMC-P (38 USC 1114(p)) is the statutory excess clause. If disabilities exceed any (L)–(O) criteria, VA may pay the next higher or an intermediate rate, up to the SMC-O cap. 38 U.S.C. § 1114 and 38 CFR § 3.350 define the rules.
Disabilities must exceed L–O criteria. VA evaluates on a case-by-case basis. Multiple SMC increases may be allowed under 3.350(f)(3). Barry v. McDonough (2024) clarified intermediate increases.