Infertility (Male, Service-Connected)

DC 7599-7522Genitourinary38 CFR 4.115b, DC 7599-7522

Inability to father children due to a service-connected injury or condition. While male infertility itself is typically rated at 0%, it qualifies for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-k) for loss of use of a creative organ, which provides additional monthly compensation.

How the VA rates this condition

This condition has a fixed rating under VA regulations. Unlike most conditions, the rating does not vary based on severity. If the VA grants service connection, the rating percentage is set by regulation.

Diagnostic code

DC 7599-7522

Rating range

0% – 0%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.115b, DC 7599-7522. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have service-connected male infertility. The condition itself is rated at 0%, but you are entitled to Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-k) for loss of use of a creative organ, which provides additional monthly compensation.

What the VA looks for

Semen analysis showing azoospermia or severe oligospermia
Documented service-connected cause (injury, chemical exposure, radiation)
Urology evaluation confirming infertility
Nexus opinion linking infertility to service
SMC-k application submitted

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not applying for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-k) — even at a 0% rating, male infertility qualifies for SMC-k for loss of use of a creative organ, which adds approximately $120+ per month.
⚠Not getting a semen analysis — the VA needs objective evidence of infertility. A semen analysis showing azoospermia or severely impaired sperm is essential.
⚠Not establishing a nexus to service — environmental exposures (Agent Orange, burn pits, radiation, depleted uranium, chemicals), testicular injuries, and service-connected conditions (diabetes, medications) can all cause infertility.
⚠Not claiming the underlying cause separately — if infertility is caused by testicular damage, hormonal disorders, or varicocele, those conditions may each be rated independently.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Male Reproductive Organ Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Infertility (Male, Service-Connected)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7599-7522

Rating range

0% – 0%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Semen analysis showing azoospermia or severe oligospermia
Documented service-connected cause (injury, chemical exposure, radiation)
Urology evaluation confirming infertility
Nexus opinion linking infertility to service
SMC-k application submitted

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not applying for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-k) — even at a 0% rating, male infertility qualifies for SMC-k for loss of use of a creative organ, which adds approximately $120+ per month.

⚠Not getting a semen analysis — the VA needs objective evidence of infertility. A semen analysis showing azoospermia or severely impaired sperm is essential.

⚠Not establishing a nexus to service — environmental exposures (Agent Orange, burn pits, radiation, depleted uranium, chemicals), testicular injuries, and service-connected conditions (diabetes, medications) can all cause infertility.

⚠Not claiming the underlying cause separately — if infertility is caused by testicular damage, hormonal disorders, or varicocele, those conditions may each be rated independently.