Erectile Dysfunction
Almost always rated 0% — but unlocks SMC-K ($139.87/mo for life). Easiest path is secondary to mental health or diabetes.
VA rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | DC 7520: Removal of half or more of the penis |
| 20% | DC 7521: Removal of glans only |
| 20% | DC 7522: Physical deformity preventing erection |
| 20% | DC 7523: Both testicles atrophied |
| 30% | DC 7524: Both testicles removed |
| 0% | Otherwise — but qualifies for SMC-K |
Pro tips
Often claimed secondary to
If you're already service-connected for any of these, Erectile Dysfunction is often a viable secondary claim.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Mental health condition from experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Stressor verification required (except combat-related, which is presumed if consistent with circumstances of service).
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Persistent, excessive worry across multiple domains. Rated identically to PTSD under §4.130.
Major Depressive Disorder
Persistent depressed mood, loss of interest, and associated symptoms. Common secondary to chronic pain.
Diabetes Mellitus, Type II
Agent Orange presumptive. Triggers cascade of secondaries: neuropathy, ED, retinopathy, kidney disease.
Hypertension
High blood pressure. PACT Act added for Vietnam veterans. Common as secondary to PTSD, sleep apnea, diabetes.
Filing this claim
For most veterans this is filed as a secondary claim. You need a nexus letter linking it to a service-connected primary condition. Use the letter generators to draft your nexus letter and Statement in Support of Claim.
Step by step
- File an Intent to File (Form 21-0966) to lock your effective date.
- Confirm you have a current medical diagnosis in a medical record.
- Get a nexus letter — magic phrase: "at least as likely as not."
- Write a Statement in Support of Claim (21-4138).
- If applicable, gather buddy statements (21-10210).
- File the formal 21-526EZ.
Source: 38 CFR §4.115b. For exact regulatory language, consult eCFR Title 38. This is general education — for your specific case, consult a VA-accredited representative.