VA Disability Rating for Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis)
30% for recurrent stones requiring frequent intervention; 0–10% for occasional stones.
Nephrolithiasis (DC 7508) is rated based on recurrence and treatment intensity. Occasional stones managed with diet and increased fluids = lower; recurrent stones requiring lithotripsy or other surgical intervention = 30%. Underlying renal dysfunction is rated separately under DC 7530-7532.
Rating tiers + 2026 monthly compensation
| Rating | Monthly (2026, single vet) | Criteria (summary) |
|---|---|---|
| 10% | $180.42 | Occasional attacks of colic, not infecting kidney; not requiring catheter drainage. |
| 30% | $552.47 | Recurrent stone formation requiring one or more of: diet therapy, drug therapy, OR invasive or non-invasive procedures more than 2 times per year. |
Dollar amounts reflect the 2.5% COLA effective 2025-12-01 for single veterans with no dependents. Add spouse + children for 30%+ ratings via the estimator.
What this means in dollars
- →At 10%: $180.42/mo · $2,165/year, tax-free
- →At 30%: $552.47/mo · $6,630/year, tax-free
How to get rated for kidney stones (nephrolithiasis)
- Imaging (CT, ultrasound) and stone analysis confirming nephrolithiasis.
- Treatment records documenting frequency of stones, lithotripsy, ureteroscopy.
- If renal function impaired, file separately under DC 7530-7532.
Common secondary conditions
- +Chronic kidney disease
- +Recurrent UTI
- +Hypertension
File these separately. VA rates each service-connected condition independently and combines them via § 4.25.
Nexus tips
- In-service dehydration (deployment heat, training without water access) is a recognized stone-formation cause.
- Camp Lejeune water-contamination exposure is a recognized risk factor for renal disease — pursue Lejeune presumption if applicable.
Frequently asked
I have passed only 2 stones in my life. Can I still file?
Yes, but expect 0–10%. The 30% tier requires recurrent, frequent intervention. File anyway to establish service-connection — future stones can be a basis for increase.
Ready to act on this?
Get a full rating estimate across your conditions, or draft the nexus letter your doctor needs to sign.
Related conditions
This page summarizes public rating criteria from 38 CFR Part 4. It is not legal or medical advice. Actual VA ratings depend on C&P exam findings, records review, and rater discretion.