VA Ratings and Benefits for Testicular Cancer and Its Associated Conditions 

Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) account for about 98% of all testicular cancers, and studies show their rates have increased in the United States and other developed countries over the past several decades. For men ages 15–44, TGCT is the most commonly diagnosed malignancy, and it is also the leading cancer among active duty U.S. servicemen, according to research published by the National Institutes of Health.  

Certain military jobs may carry higher risks. The study noted an association between aircraft maintenance work and elevated TGCT risk, with researchers now investigating the role of exposure to PFAS chemicals in firefighting foams. For veterans suffering from testicular cancer, the VA looks at two critical factors: whether the cancer can be linked to military service, and how severe the condition or its complications are for rating purposes. This guide will help you learn how to meet VA requirements and get maximum benefits. 

Service Connection for Testicular Cancer

The VA requires three things for a disability rating: a current medical diagnosis, evidence of an in-service event or exposure and a nexus (a medical opinion linking the two). 

A current diagnosis is the starting point. Veterans must provide medical records confirming they have or had testicular cancer. Without this proof, the VA will deny the claim outright. The next piece is an in-service event or exposure. This can take many forms, such as: 

• Radiation exposure during service 
• Chemical exposure, like solvents or fuels 
• Trauma to the testicles from accidents or injuries 
• Early signs or symptoms documented in service medical records 

The nexus is a statement from a qualified doctor that explains why it is at least as likely as not that the cancer is related to service. For example, a physician might point to documented chemical exposure and explain how that exposure can cause cellular damage leading to cancer. Veterans who served in jobs with known exposures, such as aircraft maintenance, firefighting, or fuel handling, should highlight these roles in their claims. 

Burn Pits and Testicular Cancer 

For many post-9/11 veterans, burn pit exposure is one of the strongest factors when seeking service connection for testicular cancer. Burn pits were used across Iraq, Afghanistan, and other deployment zones to dispose of nearly everything from plastics, metals, fuel, human waste, medical waste, and chemicals. The smoke from these pits released toxins that service members breathed in daily, often without any protective equipment. 

Recognizing the health risks tied to this exposure, the PACT Act of 2022 included “reproductive cancers of any kind” (which covers testicular cancer) as presumptive conditions for Gulf War and post-9/11 veterans exposed to burn pit toxins. That designation is critical. It means veterans no longer have to prove a direct medical link between their exposure and their cancer. Instead, they only need to show two things: 

• A confirmed diagnosis of testicular cancer 
• Service in one of the eligible locations and timeframes identified in the PACT Act 

A presumptive connection takes away the burden of proving causation and makes filing claims simpler (no more spending months gathering medical opinions and scientific studies). If a veteran’s records confirm service in a qualifying area and the veteran has a diagnosis, the VA presumes the cancer is related to that service. However, it’s still important to provide thorough records such as deployment orders, DD214s, and medical files so the VA has no reason to delay or deny the claim. 

Agent Orange Exposure 

Agent Orange is one of the most notorious herbicides used during the Vietnam War era. It has been directly linked to several cancers and chronic diseases, which the VA now recognizes as presumptive conditions. Unfortunately, testicular cancer is not on the VA’s current presumptive list for Agent Orange-related illnesses. 

That doesn’t mean veterans exposed to Agent Orange can’t pursue a claim for testicular cancer. It simply means the process is more complex. Instead of relying on presumptive status, veterans must build their case with direct evidence. This usually includes: 

• Medical records confirming the diagnosis of testicular cancer 
• Service records proving presence in areas where Agent Orange was used (Vietnam, Thailand bases, Korean DMZ, or contaminated ships) 
• A medical nexus opinion from a doctor explaining how exposure to herbicides could have caused or contributed to the cancer 

Veterans who believe their cancer is tied to Agent Orange exposure should consider gathering supportive scientific studies and seeking out specialists familiar with environmental toxin cases. Even if the VA denies the initial claim, this evidence can be used to appeal. 

PFAS and Testicular Cancer 

In recent years, a growing concern for veterans has been exposure to PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), the toxic chemicals often called “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down easily in the environment. PFAS have been used extensively in aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) for firefighting on military bases since the 1970s. Over time, PFAS chemicals seep into soil and groundwater, creating long-term health risks. 

Military firefighters, aircraft maintenance crews, and even service members stationed on contaminated bases may have been regularly exposed. A major study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found evidence linking PFAS exposure to higher rates of testicular cancer in U.S. Air Force servicemen. This research builds on earlier findings that showed aircraft maintenance personnel had elevated risks of testicular germ cell tumors 

While the VA does not currently recognize PFAS-related testicular cancer as a presumptive condition, this growing body of research is strengthening claims. Veterans can improve their cases by submitting: 

• Service records showing time at bases where AFFF was used 
• Environmental reports or public records about PFAS contamination at those locations 
• Medical documentation of testicular cancer diagnosis 
• Expert medical opinions linking exposure to the disease 

Because PFAS exposure is a relatively new issue in VA disability claims, these cases may face additional hurdles. Still, the mounting scientific evidence makes it increasingly difficult for the VA to ignore the connection, and a skilled VA attorney can assist in winning appropriate compensation. 

How the VA Rates Testicular Cancer 

The VA uses its disability rating schedule to assign percentages that reflect how a condition impacts a veteran’s daily life and ability to work. For testicular cancer, the VA applies Diagnostic Code 7528, which covers malignant neoplasms of the genitourinary system. 

Testicular Cancer Disability Ratings 

When a veteran is diagnosed with testicular cancer, the VA automatically assigns a 100% disability rating during the period when the cancer is active or when the veteran is undergoing treatment. This includes treatment methods such as: 

• Surgery, including orchiectomy (removal of one or both testicles) 
• Chemotherapy, often used for more advanced cancers 
• Radiation therapy, which may damage surrounding tissues as it targets cancer cells

The purpose of the 100% rating is to ensure that veterans are financially supported during the most challenging phase of their illness, when treatment side effects often make it impossible to work. This 100% rating continues for a minimum of six months after treatment has ended. After that, the VA schedules a mandatory Compensation & Pension exam to reassess the veteran’s health. At this point, one of two things happens: 

• If there is no recurrence or metastasis: The VA reduces the 100% rating and evaluates the veteran based on residuals. These residuals could include urinary issues, renal complications, erectile dysfunction, or infertility. 
• If the cancer has returned or spread: The VA continues the 100% disability rating indefinitely until another reexamination shows remission. 

This system ensures ongoing coverage but also creates challenges. Veterans often see their ratings drop sharply after remission, even though they may still live with significant side effects from surgery or treatment. 

For example, a veteran who underwent chemotherapy may no longer have active cancer but may now suffer from renal dysfunction or severe fatigue. Similarly, someone who had an orchiectomy may deal with erectile dysfunction or infertility for life. In these cases, the VA assigns new ratings under separate diagnostic codes to reflect the long-term impact. 

Post-Cancer Ratings You Could Qualify for 

Once the VA discontinues the automatic 100% rating under Diagnostic Code 7528 because the cancer is no longer active, your disability rating shifts to focus on the residual conditions left behind. These residuals can vary depending on the treatment you received and whether the cancer caused permanent damage. The VA typically evaluates these cases under two main pathways: 

Voiding Dysfunction or Urinary Frequency

Surgery or radiation therapy may damage the urinary system, leading to problems such as incontinence, frequent urination, or urinary retention. These conditions fall under 38 C.F.R. § 4.115a, the schedule for rating genitourinary dysfunctions. The ratings based on urinary frequency are: 

• 10% rating: Daytime voiding interval between two and three hours, or; awakening to void two times per night 
• 20% rating: Daytime voiding interval between one and two hours, or; awakening to void three to four times per night 
• 40% rating: Daytime voiding interval less than one hour, or; awakening to void five or more times per night 

The VA bases voiding dysfunction ratings on how often you need to use absorbent materials or medical devices: 

• 20% rating: Requiring the wearing of absorbent materials which must be changed less than 2 times per day 
• 40% rating: Requiring the wearing of absorbent materials which must be changed 2 to 4 times per day 
• 60% rating: Requiring the use of an appliance or the wearing of absorbent materials which must be changed more than 4 times per day 

Renal Dysfunction 

If testicular cancer spreads or treatment harms the kidneys, the VA applies the criteria for renal dysfunction. Ratings range from 0% to 100%, depending on lab values such as creatinine or blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels, as well as the severity of symptoms. Examples include: 

• 30% rating: Chronic kidney disease with GFR from 45 to 59 mL/min/1.73 m2 for at least 3 consecutive months during the past 12 months 
• 60% rating: Chronic kidney disease with GFR from 30 to 44 mL/min/1.73 m2 for at least 3 consecutive months during the past 12 months 
• 80% rating: Chronic kidney disease with GFR from 15 to 29 mL/min/1.73 m2 for at least 3 consecutive months during the past 12 months 
• 100% rating: Chronic kidney disease with glomerular filtration rate (GFR) less than 15 mL/min/1.73 m2 for at least 3 consecutive months during the past 12 months; or requiring regular routine dialysis; or eligible kidney transplant recipient 

Other Residuals 

In addition to voiding and renal dysfunction, veterans may face other long-term complications, which can be rated separately or may qualify a veteran for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC). They include: 

• Erectile dysfunction or infertility 
• Hormonal imbalances following orchiectomy 
• Fatigue and systemic weakness from chemotherapy or radiation 

VA Ratings for Loss of Testicle 

One of the most common procedures for treating testicular cancer is an orchiectomy, or surgical removal of a testicle. Depending on whether one or both testicles are removed, the VA assigns disability ratings under Diagnostic Code 7524. 

• Removal of one testicle = 10% rating 
• Removal of both testicles = 30% rating 

This rating applies whether the removal was due to cancer, trauma, or another service-connected cause. Even if only one testicle is removed, veterans should still file a claim, because the VA recognizes the loss as a compensable condition. 

In addition to the standard rating, veterans may qualify for Special Monthly Compensation. SMC(k) provides additional payment for the loss of use of a creative organ, a category that includes testicles. For example, a veteran who has one testicle removed receives the 10% rating but may also qualify for SMC(k). 

This is important because SMC is paid in addition to regular disability compensation, not instead of it. The VA recognizes that the loss of reproductive organs affects not only physical health but also quality of life, identity, and family planning. 

Atrophy of the Testicles 

Not all complications of testicular cancer involve full removal. In some cases, cancer itself, or the treatments used to fight it, can cause atrophy; the shrinking or wasting away of one or both testicles. The VA rates this condition separately under Diagnostic Code 7523. The rating schedule is straightforward: 

• Complete atrophy of one testicle = 0% rating 
• Complete atrophy of both testicles = 20% rating 

At first glance, the 0% rating for one testicle may seem discouraging, but it still matters. A 0% service-connected condition can: 

• Serve as the foundation for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) for loss of use of a creative organ 
• Qualify a veteran for VA healthcare benefits for the condition, even without monthly payments 
• Be used to establish service connection for secondary conditions, such as infertility, erectile dysfunction, or depression 

When both testicles are affected, the 20% rating provides ongoing monthly compensation. Even beyond that, veterans may also qualify for SMC(k) if the atrophy causes loss of reproductive function. 

It’s worth noting that atrophy can be caused by more than just surgery. Radiation, chemotherapy, and hormonal imbalances after orchiectomy can all contribute. Veterans should document these changes through medical exams and, when possible, provide specialist opinions confirming the link to their service or cancer treatment. 

Erectile Dysfunction 

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most common residual conditions after testicular cancer. Veterans may experience ED following orchiectomy, chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone changes related to treatment. Even when cancer is in remission, ED often remains a lasting challenge. 

The VA typically assigns a 0% rating for erectile dysfunction itself. That does not mean the condition is ignored. Instead, the VA acknowledges its impact through Special Monthly Compensation level K for the loss of use of a creative organ. Here’s how it works: 

• Even without a compensable percentage rating, veterans can still qualify for SMC(k) payments if they can no longer maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity. 
• SMC(k) is paid in addition to any other disability compensation the veteran receives. 
• Medical documentation is essential, typically from a urologist, showing that ED is linked to service-connected testicular cancer or its treatment. 

For many veterans, ED is not only a medical issue but also a psychological and relationship challenge. It can contribute to depression, anxiety, or strained family dynamics. That’s why it’s important to document not just the physical condition but also any mental health effects that develop as a result. Those secondary conditions may be rated separately under the VA’s mental health schedule. 

Infertility 

Infertility is another common consequence of testicular cancer and its treatment. Even when only one testicle is removed, chemotherapy or radiation can damage the remaining reproductive function, sometimes permanently. Hormonal changes following orchiectomy can also play a role. 

The VA does not assign a separate disability percentage for infertility. Instead, infertility is usually addressed under Special Monthly Compensation for the loss of use of a creative organ. If cancer or treatment prevents the production of sperm or the ability to reproduce, veterans may qualify for this benefit. An infertility claim requires: 

• Medical test results, such as semen analyses confirming azoospermia (no sperm present) or reduced sperm count 
• Doctor’s opinions linking infertility to orchiectomy, chemotherapy, or radiation 
• Service records showing the cancer diagnosis and treatment were connected to service 

Although infertility is not separately rated, it is often a key factor in a veteran’s overall disability picture. Beyond the medical effects, infertility can take a heavy emotional toll, leading to feelings of loss, depression, or anxiety about family planning. In those cases, veterans may also file secondary claims for mental health conditions.  

Mental Health Conditions

The effects of testicular cancer are not only physical. Many veterans struggle with the emotional and psychological fallout that comes with the diagnosis, treatment, and lasting complications of the disease. The VA recognizes this reality by allowing veterans to file for secondary mental health conditions linked to their service-connected testicular cancer. Some of the most common mental health conditions include: 

• Depression, often tied to infertility, erectile dysfunction, or hormonal changes after orchiectomy 
• Anxiety, which may develop from worries about cancer recurrence, treatment side effects, or changes in body image 
• Post-traumatic stress symptoms, especially if the cancer diagnosis or treatment triggered trauma responses from previous military service or medical experiences 

These conditions can deeply affect daily life. For example, a veteran coping with infertility may experience feelings of grief and loss, while someone living with erectile dysfunction may struggle with self-esteem and relationship challenges. Left untreated, these issues can also interfere with work and social functioning. 

The VA rates mental health conditions under the General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders, with ratings ranging from 0% to 100%, depending on how much the disability interferes with occupational and social functioning. See the rating criteria for mental health disorders. 

To qualify, veterans must provide a medical nexus opinion linking the psychiatric condition to their service-connected testicular cancer or its residuals. For example, a psychologist might explain that a veteran’s depression is directly tied to infertility caused by chemotherapy. 

Scars from Surgery 

The VA allows veterans to receive a separate disability rating for scars under Diagnostic Codes 7800–7805, depending on the scar’s size, location, and symptoms. Typical ratings include: 

• 10% for a painful scar, if the scar consistently causes discomfort or tenderness 
• 10% for an unstable scar, if the skin over the scar frequently breaks down 
• Higher ratings may be assigned for multiple scars, scars that are large in area, or scars that are significantly disfiguring 

For example, a veteran who underwent surgery and is left with a painful scar on the groin can file for a scar rating in addition to their cancer or residual ratings. If the scar is both painful and unstable, the VA may increase the rating by 10%. 

Scars may also have a psychological impact. For some veterans, the location of the scar can affect body image, self-esteem, and intimacy. While the scar itself is rated physically, these emotional effects can support secondary claims for depression or anxiety. Veterans pursuing scar ratings should submit: 

• Medical records or surgical notes confirming the procedure and resulting scar 
• Photographs showing the scar’s size and location 
• Statements describing pain, instability, or limitations caused by the scar 

How to Get VA Disability for Testicular Cancer

Veterans seeking disability compensation for testicular cancer must start by filing a claim with the VA. The process requires medical documentation confirming a diagnosis, such as biopsy or pathology reports, surgical notes, or oncology treatment records. Service records are equally important, especially if they show deployment in areas with burn pits, assignments on bases where PFAS firefighting foams were used, or in-service injuries related to the condition. 

The VA will typically schedule a Compensation & Pension exam once a claim is submitted. At this exam, a VA clinician reviews medical history and evaluates the cancer or its residual effects, such as urinary problems, infertility, or erectile dysfunction. Veterans should describe all symptoms clearly so the VA has an accurate picture of how the condition affects daily life. 

Because cancers rated under Diagnostic Code 7528 require review six months after treatment ends, the VA also mandates reexaminations to determine whether the cancer has returned or if only residuals remain. Veterans should keep ongoing records of complications to ensure they are considered in future ratings.

The VA Claims Process

• Submit VA Form 21-526EZ to begin the claim 
• Provide medical documentation of the cancer and treatment 
• Include service records showing exposures or in-service events 
• Be thorough during the C&P exam, noting all residual symptoms 
• Prepare for mandatory reexaminations six months after treatment 

Appeals and Rating Reconsideration 

Not every testicular cancer claim is approved the first time, and even approved claims are often underrated. Many veterans walk away from their initial decision with frustration, but the VA’s appeals process gives them a chance to push back. 

When a claim is denied, the VA usually points to a missing piece of evidence (often a nexus opinion) connecting the cancer to service, or detailed documentation of residual conditions. In cases where the VA acknowledges the cancer but assigns too low a rating, it may be because the veteran’s ongoing complications were not fully considered. Issues like urinary dysfunction, infertility, or depression may not have been thoroughly documented at the time of review. 

Veterans’ Appeal Options 

• A Higher-Level Review, where a senior claims adjudicator re-examines the file for mistakes 
• A Supplemental Claim, which allows the veteran to add new medical evidence or service records 
• An appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, where a Veterans Law Judge reviews the case and, if requested, hears testimony from the veteran 

Each of these paths has its own timeline, but they share one thing in common: success depends on stronger evidence. Updated oncology records, specialist opinions linking residuals to service, and even lay statements from family or fellow service members can help fill in the gaps the VA originally overlooked.  

Veterans who persist, submit new evidence, and highlight the lasting impact of testicular cancer often win higher ratings or service connection on appeal. Legal representation may however be needed to ensure success. We recommend requesting a free evaluation from our team to see if we can help. 

How Much Can You Get for Testicular Cancer?

For most veterans, the initial disability rating is just the starting point. There are several ways of increasing benefits that can make a real difference, especially when cancer treatment leaves lasting complications. 

Monthly Compensation 

Once the VA assigns a disability rating, the veteran begins receiving monthly payments. The amount depends on the percentage rating and whether the veteran has dependents such as a spouse, children, or dependent parents. For example, a single veteran with a 30% rating receives less than a veteran with the same rating who supports a spouse and children. 

These payments are designed to replace some of the lost earning capacity caused by service-connected disability. You can use our VA disability calculator to estimate payment amounts based on rating percentage and family status. 

Special Monthly Compensation

Beyond standard disability payments, some veterans qualify for Special Monthly Compensation. For testicular cancer, the most common form is SMC(k), which applies to the loss or loss of use of a creative organ. This includes: 

• Anatomical loss, such as removal of one or both testicles 
• Loss of function, such as erectile dysfunction or infertility caused by treatment 
• Confirmed impairment, like a testicle shrinking to one-third its normal size or a biopsy showing no sperm production 

What makes SMC unique is that it is paid in addition to regular disability compensation. That means even if a veteran only receives a 0% or 10% rating for residuals, SMC(k) can provide extra monthly benefits that acknowledge the unique impact of losing reproductive function. 

For many veterans, SMC represents an often-overlooked form of compensation. Filing for it can substantially increase monthly benefits and better reflect the real-life consequences of testicular cancer. Our VA disability lawyers may able to assist you in winning this benefit. Get in touch for a free case evaluation. 

Individual Unemployability 

The effects of testicular cancer don’t end once the cancer itself is in remission. Even after surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation, residuals can create barriers to steady employment. In these cases, veterans may qualify for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability. TDIU allows veterans to be compensated at the 100% disability rate, even if their combined rating is less than 100%. To qualify, a veteran generally needs: 

• A single service-connected disability rated at 60% or higher, or 
• A combined rating of 70% or more, with one disability rated at least 40% 

However, even veterans who don’t meet these exact thresholds may be considered for TDIU if the VA determines that their service-connected conditions make it impossible to maintain substantially gainful employment. Common residuals of testicular cancer that may support a TDIU claim include: 

• Severe fatigue or weakness following chemotherapy or radiation 
• Urinary incontinence or frequency that disrupts workplace functioning 
• Erectile dysfunction and infertility, leading to depression and social withdrawal 
• Chronic pain or neuropathy related to treatment 
• Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety tied to body image, infertility, or the stress of survivorship 
• Scars or surgical complications that limit physical activity or cause discomfort with prolonged sitting, lifting, or standing 

To succeed in a TDIU claim, veterans must provide detailed medical documentation of these limitations and how they affect employability. Submitting VA Form 21-8940 is required, and many veterans also strengthen their cases with vocational assessments, Social Security Disability records, or statements from doctors and employers describing work restrictions. If you qualify, Hill & Ponton’s TDIU lawyers can fight on your behalf and win the benefits you deserve. 

Additional Benefits and Programs 

The VA recognizes that testicular cancer impacts nearly every part of a veteran’s life. Beyond disability compensation, it offers several programs and benefits that provide crucial medical care, employment assistance, and family protection. 

• VA Healthcare Coverage: Veterans with service-connected cancer are eligible for comprehensive VA healthcare. This includes oncology treatments, follow-up monitoring, prescriptions, and mental health services. Even if the cancer is in remission, veterans can continue receiving care for residuals like infertility, urinary dysfunction, or depression. 
• Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Services: For veterans whose cancer or its complications prevent them from continuing in their previous careers, the VA provides vocational rehabilitation. This program offers training, education, and support for finding new employment that matches the veteran’s physical abilities. 
• Survivor Benefits: If a veteran’s cancer is terminal or contributes to their death, surviving family members may qualify for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC). This benefit provides monthly payments to eligible spouses, children, or parents of veterans who die from service-connected conditions. 
• Fertility Preservation and Family Planning: Because testicular cancer often affects reproductive health, the VA has established programs to assist with fertility preservation. This may include services such as sperm banking prior to treatment, as well as counseling for family planning. These benefits help ensure veterans still have options for building families even after life-altering treatment. 

By seeking all available benefits for testicular cancer, veterans and their families can gain the financial, medical, and emotional support they need to recover from the aftermath of this devastating disease. At Hill & Ponton, we are dedicated to helping you win all the benefits you’re entitled to. Get your free case evaluation today to take the first step towards a higher rating and increased compensation.