Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Erectile dysfunction is rated under DC 7522. ED by itself receives only a 0% rating. However, a service-connected 0% rating for ED automatically qualifies the veteran for Special Monthly Compensation at the K level (SMC-K), which provides an additional monthly payment on top of regular disability compensation. The ability to sometimes achieve an erection or to impregnate someone does not prevent service connection or SMC-K eligibility. If ED results from service-connected diabetes, it will appear administratively as 'diabetes type II with erectile dysfunction' rather than a separate rating, but the veteran is still entitled to SMC-K.
VA Rating Levels
Difficulty or inability achieving or maintaining an erection. This is the only rating level. However, it qualifies for SMC-K, an additional monthly payment.
Exam Tips & Key Evidence
- →ED is one of the most commonly successful secondary claims. It is frequently secondary to PTSD, depression, diabetes, hypertension, prostate conditions, or medications for these conditions.
- →Even at 0%, ED automatically qualifies you for SMC-K, an additional monthly payment on top of your overall disability compensation. This makes ED extremely valuable to claim.
- →Medication side effects from SSRIs (antidepressants), blood pressure medications, and other prescriptions for service-connected conditions are a strong nexus for ED.
- →You do not need to prove complete inability to achieve erections. Difficulty maintaining an erection is sufficient for service connection.
- →Veterans with penis and testes conditions are likely entitled to SMC-K. Conditions under DC 7520/7521 (loss/deformity of the penis) can rate at 20% or 30% if physical deformity exists.
Commonly Related Conditions
38 CFR Reference
38 CFR 4.115b, Diagnostic Code 7522