The VA usually rates erectile dysfunction at 0% but may grant SMC(k).

You need medical evidence and a service connection for a successful claim.

File using VA Form 21-526EZ and attend any required C&P exams.

Most compensation comes from SMC(k), not a standard disability rating.

Appeal within one year if your claim is denied or incomplete.

VA Disability Rating Schedule: Erectile Dysfunction Claims Guide |

How the VA Rates Erectile Dysfunction for Disability

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs as a compensable condition if it is linked to military service. However, under 38 CFR § 4.115b, Diagnostic Code 7522, the VA typically assigns a 0% disability rating for ED itself. This means you may not receive monthly compensation for ED alone, but you may qualify for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) if there is loss of use of a creative organ.

It's important to understand that ED is rarely rated above 0% unless there is a physical deformity of the penis with loss of erectile power. Most veterans receive SMC(k), which is currently $128.62 per month (as of 2024), if service connection is established.

What Evidence You Need for an ED VA Claim

To file a successful claim for service-connected erectile dysfunction, you must submit:

Medical evidence of a current diagnosis of ED
Proof of a service-connected condition that caused or aggravated the ED (such as diabetes, PTSD, or medication side effects)
A nexus letter or medical opinion linking your ED to your service or another service-connected condition

Use VA Form 21-526EZ to file your initial claim. If you are seeking SMC, the VA will typically consider this automatically, but you can also submit VA Form 21-2680 (Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance) to document loss of use of a creative organ.

Step-by-Step: Filing a VA Claim for Erectile Dysfunction

Follow these steps to file your claim:

Gather all relevant medical records and supporting documents, including private doctor statements.
Complete and submit VA Form 21-526EZ online or by mail.
Attend a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam if scheduled. The examiner will assess your ED and any related physical findings.
Wait for the VA's decision. If approved, check if SMC(k) is included in your award letter.

If your claim is denied or you disagree with the rating, you can file a Supplemental Claim or appeal. Visit our VA claims hub for detailed instructions.

What to Expect After Filing: Ratings and Compensation

Most veterans with service-connected ED receive a 0% rating but are granted SMC(k) for loss of use of a creative organ. This is a separate monthly payment added to your total disability compensation. You can use our VA disability rating calculator to estimate your combined rating if you have other service-connected conditions.

Remember, ED can be claimed as secondary to conditions like diabetes, hypertension, PTSD, or as a side effect of medication. If you develop ED after service, ensure your claim clearly explains the connection to your existing service-connected disabilities.

Appealing a Denied ED Claim

If your ED claim is denied, review the VA's reasons and gather any missing evidence. You can submit a Supplemental Claim with new evidence or file a Higher-Level Review. For more on appeals, see our explainers index.

Timelines are important: You have one year from the date of the VA's decision to appeal. Missing this deadline means you must start over with a new claim.