The rating ladder
What the VA looks for at each percentage.
How to describe it (and win the rating)
- Describe the frequency and consistency of the erectile dysfunction on your worst days — e.g., how often you are unable to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for penetration and completion of intercourse.
- Report honestly whether there is any physical deformity of the penis (curvature, atrophy, structural change), since DC 7522 technically contemplates deformity plus loss of erectile power.
- Note whether the ED is total (no functional erectile power) versus partial, and whether medications (e.g., oral agents, injections, devices) are ineffective or not tolerated.
- Explain the connection to a service-connected condition or its treatment (e.g., diabetes, prostate issues, PTSD medications, blood pressure medications) if claiming secondary service connection.
- Do not exaggerate — state plainly what you experience. The key compensation here comes through SMC-K for loss of use of a creative organ, not through a schedular percentage.
Evidence that helps
- Medical records or examination documenting erectile dysfunction (loss of erectile power).
- Documentation of any penile deformity, if present.
- Records establishing the underlying or primary service-connected condition (for secondary claims), e.g., diabetes mellitus, prostate cancer, or medication side-effect documentation.
- List of medications tried for ED and their effectiveness/side effects (oral PDE5 inhibitors, injections, vacuum devices, implants).
- VA Compensation & Pension (C&P) examination report addressing ED and the male reproductive system.
- Nexus opinion linking ED to a service-connected disability or to service, if applicable.
- Lay statements describing onset, frequency, and impact.
Next steps
Related conditions & secondary claims
Conditions medically linked to Erectile Dysfunction — each can be worth a separate or secondary claim:
- Diabetes — ED is a well-established secondary to diabetes through vascular and nerve damage.
- PTSD — ED is a recognized side effect of PTSD and psychotropic medications — and qualifies for SMC-K special monthly compensation.
- Radiculopathy — Lumbar nerve involvement can contribute to ED.
Common questions
What is the VA disability rating for erectile dysfunction?
The VA rates erectile dysfunction under 38 CFR diagnostic code 7522. The rating tiers are: 0% — Penile deformity WITH loss of erectile power. Under DC 7522, the schedular evaluation is 0%. Note: The rating schedule assigns a 0% (noncompensable) rating for erectile dysfunction itself. Even when the criteria are met, no compensable schedular percentage is available under this code — the disability is instead compensated through Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-K).. Your exact percentage depends on the severity documented in your records and C&P exam.
How much VA disability compensation is erectile dysfunction?
Monthly pay depends on your assigned rating percentage and your dependents, not the condition alone. Erectile Dysfunction is rated at 0% (the maximum schedular rating). Use the free US Vet Help disability calculator for your exact 2026 monthly amount.
What evidence do I need for a erectile dysfunction VA claim?
Evidence that helps includes: Medical records or examination documenting erectile dysfunction (loss of erectile power).; Documentation of any penile deformity, if present.; Records establishing the underlying or primary service-connected condition (for secondary claims), e.g., diabetes mellitus, prostate cancer, or medication side-effect documentation.; List of medications tried for ED and their effectiveness/side effects (oral PDE5 inhibitors, injections, vacuum devices, implants).; VA Compensation & Pension (C&P) examination report addressing ED and the male reproductive system.; Nexus opinion linking ED to a service-connected disability or to service, if applicable.; Lay statements describing onset, frequency, and impact..
How do I get the correct rating for erectile dysfunction?
To be rated accurately: Describe the frequency and consistency of the erectile dysfunction on your worst days — e.g., how often you are unable to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for penetration and completion of intercourse.; Report honestly whether there is any physical deformity of the penis (curvature, atrophy, structural change), since DC 7522 technically contemplates deformity plus loss of erectile power.; Note whether the ED is total (no functional erectile power) versus partial, and whether medications (e.g., oral agents, injections, devices) are ineffective or not tolerated.; Explain the connection to a service-connected condition or its treatment (e.g., diabetes, prostate issues, PTSD medications, blood pressure medications) if claiming secondary service connection.; Do not exaggerate — state plainly what you experience. The key compensation here comes through SMC-K for loss of use of a creative organ, not through a schedular percentage..
Wondering if you're rated too low for this? We read your VA file and check.
Find my claim opportunities →Educational summary of the 38 CFR Part 4 criteria — simplified, not the full regulation, and not medical or legal advice. The VA rates on your specific evidence. Describe your worst days honestly; never exaggerate. Confirm criteria in 38 CFR Part 4. US Vet Help is not affiliated with the VA and does not file claims.