Diagnostic Code 7522 · 38 CFR §4.115b
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to achieve or maintain sufficient function for intimate activity. The VA rates ED under DC 7522, which technically covers "deformity of the anatomy with loss of erectile power." For most veterans, ED is claimed as secondary to another service-connected condition — most commonly diabetes, PTSD/depression (or the medications used to treat them), spinal conditions causing nerve compression, or prostate conditions. While the schedular rating for ED is typically 0%, the real value is in the Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-K) that accompanies it.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 0% | Loss of erectile power without physical deformity. This is the standard rating for most veterans with ED. While 0% may seem insignificant, the real benefit comes from Special Monthly Compensation at the K rate (SMC-K), which is a separate monthly payment of approximately $131.44 (2026 rate) paid on top of your regular disability compensation. SMC-K is awarded for loss of use of a creative organ and is granted automatically when ED is service-connected. |
You need: (1) a current diagnosis of ED from a medical provider, (2) a nexus to service — typically secondary to another service-connected condition, and (3) a medical opinion linking the ED to the primary condition or its treatment. Common secondary connections include: diabetes (a well-established medical cause), PTSD/depression medications such as SSRIs (known to cause this side effect), lumbar spine conditions causing nerve involvement, and prostate conditions or their treatments. A nexus letter from your doctor explaining the mechanism is recommended. If your ED is caused by a medication prescribed for a service-connected condition, that medication connection serves as the nexus.
Special Monthly Compensation at the K rate (SMC-K) is a monthly payment for loss of use of a creative organ. As of 2026, the rate is approximately $131.44 per month, paid in addition to your regular disability compensation. It is typically awarded automatically when ED is service-connected.
Under DC 7522, a higher rating requires physical deformity of the anatomy in addition to loss of erectile power. For most veterans with ED alone (without deformity), the rating is 0%. However, the SMC-K payment adds meaningful compensation. If ED is part of a broader genitourinary condition, other diagnostic codes may apply.
Yes. ED is very commonly claimed secondary to diabetes, PTSD, depression, medications (SSRIs, blood pressure drugs), lumbar spine conditions, and prostate conditions. The medical connections are well established for all of these.
Usually no. When the VA grants service connection for ED, SMC-K is typically awarded in the same decision. However, if your decision letter does not include SMC-K, you can request it. It is also worth checking if you qualify for SMC-K for other reasons — it can be awarded for loss of use of various organs or extremities.