You are not required to proactively notify the VA that you are attempting to work, and doing so could trigger an unnecessary re-evaluation; your SMC-S (statutory housebound) under 38 U.S.C. § 1114(s) is based on your static 100% rating for mental health (likely Diagnostic Code 9201, 9400, etc.) combined with separate disabilities totaling 60% or more (38 CFR 3.350(i)), not on a factual determination that you are physically confined. The VA’s primary concern is whether your improved functionality constitutes "material improvement" in your service-connected condition under 38 CFR 3.327 and 3.105(e). As established in *Fenderson v. West*, attempting work, even if unsuccessful, can be evidence of improvement, but a failed work attempt may actually reinforce the severity of your disability. Your immediate action should be to **document everything**: keep a detailed log of work attempts, challenges, and any accommodations needed, and if the work ceases, obtain a statement from your employer or yourself explaining why it failed due to your service-connected condition. If you ultimately sustain gainful employment, you may need to report that income change, but a trial work period does not mandate an immediate report. For official inquiries, contact the VA through secure messaging via VA.gov or call 1-800-827-1000. Consult a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) before submitting any formal notification to strategize protecting your benefits. **This is educational information for claims assistance and not legal or medical advice; for guidance on your specific case, consult an accredited attorney or agent.**
Need a deeper analysis?
Official 2026 VA monthly compensation, including the 2.8% COLA increase.
Dependent add-ons start at a 30% rating. Child-only and dependent-parent rates: see the full 2026 pay chart.
| Rating | Monthly (2026, incl. 2.8% COLA) |
|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 |
| 20% | $356.66 |
| 30% | $552.47 |
| 40% | $795.84 |
| 50% | $1,132.90 |
| 60% | $1,435.02 |
| 70% | $1,808.45 |
| 80% | $2,102.15 |
| 90% | $2,362.30 |
| 100% | $3,938.58 |
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