Erectile Dysfunction as a Veterans' Disability

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a condition where a man is unable to maintain or achieve an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse. It is a prevalent condition among veterans, and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recognizes it as a disability. Veterans can receive disability benefits for ED if they can demonstrate that it is connected to their military service.

VA Benefits for Erectile Dysfunction

The VA provides various benefits for veterans diagnosed with ED. The benefits largely depend on the severity of the condition and how it impacts the veteran's quality of life. Such benefits may include treatment options, medication, and disability compensation.

Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) Category K for Veterans with a 0% Rating

A 0% service-connected VA rating for ED means that the condition has been acknowledged as being related to military service, but it does not warrant compensation based on the VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities. However, veterans who fall under this category can qualify for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) under Category K. As of 2023, this SMC pays an additional $118.33 per month on top of any other disability compensation the veteran may receive.

VA Disability Ratings for Erectile Dysfunction

The VA rating scale for erectile dysfunction varies based on severity and accompanying physical deformities or disabilities:

a) A 0% service-connected VA rating, as explained above, acknowledges the service connection but doesn't provide disability compensation beyond the SMC Category K.

b) A 20% rating is given for penis deformity with loss of erectile power. This designation (Code 7520) indicates a physical deformity of the penis that causes the inability to achieve an erection.

c)

A 30% rating is awarded for partial removal of