UTI VA Rating Explained (0% to 30%) 

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The VA rates urinary tract infections (UTIs) at 0%, 10%, or 30% under 38 CFR § 4.115a based on severity, recurrence, and treatment required.

If a UTI causes kidney (renal) dysfunction, it may be rated under renal dysfunction criteria, which can qualify for up to a 100% VA disability rating.

What is a UTI?

According to Mayo Clinic, a urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection of any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. However, most UTIs occur in the lower urinary tract (bladder and urethra). 

UTIs are more common in women and symptoms include: 

• A burning feeling when urinating 

• A strong urge to urinate that doesn’t go away 

• Urinating often and passing small amounts of urine 

• Urine that looks red, bright pink or cola-colored (can be a sign of blood in the urine) 

• Pelvic pain that occurs mostly in the center of the pelvis and around the area of the pubic bone 

UTI VA Rating Chart

VA Rating	UTI Criteria
30%	Recurrent symptomatic infection requiring drainage by stent or nephrostomy tube; or requiring greater than two hospitalizations per year; or requiring continuous intensive management
10%	Recurrent symptomatic infection requiring one to two hospitalizations per year or suppressive drug therapy lasting six months or longer
0%	Recurrent symptomatic infection not requiring hospitalization but requiring suppressive drug therapy for less than six months

VA Rating Chart for Renal Dysfunction

VA Rating	Renal Dysfunction Criteria
100%	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
80%	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
60%	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
30%	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
0%	GFR from 60 to 89 mL/min/1.73 m2 and either recurrent red blood cell (RBC) casts, white blood cell (WBC) casts, or granular casts for at least 3 consecutive months during the past 12 months; or GFR from 60 to 89 mL/min/1.73 m2 and structural kidney abnormalities (cystic, obstructive, or glomerular) for at least 3 consecutive months during the past 12 months; or GFR from 60 to 89 mL/min/1.73 m2 and albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) ≥30 mg/g for at least 3 consecutive months during the past 12 months

Note: GFR, estimated GFR (eGFR), and creatinine-based approximations of GFR will be accepted for evaluation purposes under this section when determined to be appropriate and calculated by a medical professional. 

>> For a full breakdown of related conditions, see our guide to VA ratings for the genitourinary system.

Service Connecting a UTI

When training or deployed to austere environments with limited access to hydration or hygiene, service members may be prone to infection.  

To receive a urinary tract infection VA rating, you must prove that your UTI is service-connected.  

Direct Service Connection

Primary, or direct, service connection applies if your UTI occurred during or is directly linked to your military service.   

Proving primary service connection requires: 

1. A current diagnosis of pulmonary embolism, and  

2. An in-service event, injury, illness, or aggravation, and  

3. A medical nexus (such as a nexus letter or statement) linking #1 and #2. 

Secondary Service Connection

Secondary service connection applies if your UTI was caused or aggravated by another service-connected condition, such as neurological conditions, diabetes, or kidney stones. 

Proving secondary service connection requires a current diagnosis of a UTI, medical evidence, and a nexus linking your UTI to an already service-connected condition. 

Pro Tip: A credible nexus letter strengthens secondary service connection claims. 

How to File a VA Claim for UTI

Submitting a VA claim online is convenient, but you can also download and complete VA Form 21-526EZ and submit it: 

• By mail or fax 

• In person at a VA regional office 

See More: The Best Way to File a VA Claim 

Conclusion

If your UTI can be connected to your service, you may be eligible for VA compensation and benefits. 

The VA rates a UTI from 0% to 30%, depending on recurrence, hospitalization, and treatment.  

If your UTI impacts kidney function, the VA may rate it under renal dysfunction, which rates up to 100% depending on the results of a GFR test and whether you qualify for dialysis and/or a kidney transplant. 

Want to see how the VA rates other conditions? Check out our full guide to VA disability ratings by condition.

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FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions

What is the highest VA rating for a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

The highest schedular rating for a UTI is 30%. However, if the condition causes kidney (renal) dysfunction, it can be rated under renal dysfunction criteria, which can go up to 100%.

How does the VA determine your UTI rating?

The VA rates UTIs based on how often infections occur, whether hospitalization is required, and the level of ongoing treatment, such as suppressive drug therapy or intensive management.

Can you get a VA rating for a UTI without hospitalization?

Yes. You can receive a 0% or 10% rating if your UTI requires ongoing treatment like suppressive drug therapy, even if hospitalization is not required.

Can a UTI be service connected as a secondary condition?

Yes. A UTI can be service connected if it is caused or aggravated by another service-connected condition, such as kidney stones, diabetes, or certain neurological conditions.

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