VA Disability Compensation for Erectile Dysfunction:
What You Need to Know
When it comes to VA disability compensation for erectile dysfunction (ED), most veterans will receive a 0% disability rating. However, this does not mean you won’t receive compensation. Instead, ED is typically compensated under Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) category K, which covers the loss of use of a creative organ.
As of 2023, the monthly amount for SMC-K is $128.12. This figure is subject to annual cost-of-living adjustments. Importantly, this payment is in addition to your regular VA disability compensation. So, for example, if you’re rated at 70% for other service-connected conditions, you can still receive this $128.12 on top of your standard monthly compensation. The same goes for veterans rated at 100%.
Understanding Erectile Dysfunction as a VA Claim
Erectile dysfunction is very common among men and even more so among male veterans. For many veterans, ED may be caused by medications prescribed for other service-connected conditions—especially mental health disorders. Drugs like Trazodone, Xanax, and others commonly list ED as a potential side effect.
Because of this, ED is often filed as a secondary service-connected claim, meaning it stems from another primary condition or the treatment for it. When filing a secondary claim, you will need:
- A current diagnosis of erectile dysfunction
- Documentation of ongoing symptoms
- A medical nexus opinion (e.g., a doctor stating it is “at least as likely as not” that the condition is linked to service or service-connected treatment)
Veterans filing ED claims related to medication side effects often find success, as the condition is frequently listed as a side effect on the prescription bottle itself.
What to Expect During the C&P Exam
Some veterans may feel uncomfortable about attending a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam for ED. The good news is that these exams are typically non-invasive. For standard erectile dysfunction claims (without physical deformities), the exam does not involve any physical inspection. Instead, the provider will rely on your documentation, symptoms, and self-reporting.
Unless the condition involves a visible deformity (like Peyronie’s disease), you will not be asked to disrobe. This helps remove a significant barrier for many veterans who may hesitate to file due to embarrassment.
Key Considerations Before Filing
While the 0% rating under SMC-K won’t increase your combined VA disability percentage, it does provide additional compensation. If your strategy is focused on reaching 100% via the combined ratings table, an ED claim won’t directly help you get there numerically. However, the extra $128.12 per month is still a meaningful benefit and should not be overlooked.
Another consideration is timing. If you’re within your one-year presumptive period after discharge, filing now may be advantageous. ED claims can be easier to win due to their commonality, clear medication links, and simpler exam process.
Final Thoughts
Erectile dysfunction may be a sensitive topic, but it’s a common issue that many veterans face—especially those dealing with physical or psychological conditions and the medications used to treat them. Filing for ED as a secondary condition is often straightforward and can lead to additional monthly compensation through SMC-K.
