How the VA Rates Allergic Rhinitis
The plain-English version of the 38 CFR Part 4, DC 6522 criteria a VA rater evaluates Allergic Rhinitis against, with the 2026 monthly rate at each level. A reference to what the regulation describes — never a prediction of any rating.
38 CFR Part 4, DC 6522
Allergic Rhinitis · 2 levels
- 30%$552.47a month
- 10%$180.42a month
2026 VA rates (effective December 1, 2025), veteran alone, as the only rated condition. VA decides the level.
Key facts
- Regulation
- 38 CFR Part 4, DC 6522
- Diagnostic code
- 6522
- Levels in the schedule
- 10% · 30%
- Top level (30%) pays
- $552.47/month2026, veteran alone
The rating levels
Criteria paraphrased from 38 CFR Part 4, DC 6522 for readability. Monthly amounts are the 2026 rate (effective December 1, 2025) for a veteran with no dependents if this were the only rated condition — dependents add more, and multiple conditions combine under the VA’s own math.
- 30%
$552.47/month
Allergic or vasomotor rhinitis with nasal polyps. 30% is the maximum schedular rating under DC 6522.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- Nasal polyps confirmed on exam or imaging
- Persistent obstruction despite medication
- Chronic congestion and reduced sense of smell
- 10%
$180.42/month
Allergic or vasomotor rhinitis without nasal polyps, but with greater than 50 percent obstruction of the nasal passage on both sides, or complete obstruction on one side.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- No polyps, but >50% obstruction of both nostrils (or one fully blocked)
- Chronic congestion, runny nose, sneezing
- Mouth breathing or disrupted sleep from congestion
The listed symptoms are examples that appear in each level’s criteria — not a checklist that earns a percentage. Raters apply the criteria as a whole.
The evidence that matters most
ENT diagnosis + documented polyps if present, with service connection to environmental exposure (e.g., burn pits, airborne hazards)
C&P exam tips for Allergic Rhinitis
- 1What wins this rating: a nasal exam stating whether polyps are present (the dividing line between 10% and 30%) and the percentage of obstruction on each side.
- 2If polyps are present, make sure they are documented — they move the rating to the 30% maximum.
- 3Note ongoing symptoms despite antihistamines/nasal steroids.
Common mistakes on Allergic Rhinitis claims
- Not having the presence or absence of polyps documented.
- Not measuring/recording the degree of nasal obstruction on each side.
- Expecting more than 30% — that is the schedular maximum.
Frequently asked questions
What diagnostic code does the VA use for Allergic Rhinitis?
Allergic Rhinitis is rated under 38 CFR Part 4, DC 6522 — diagnostic code 6522.
What is the highest schedular VA rating for Allergic Rhinitis?
30% is the highest level in the rating schedule for Allergic Rhinitis. The criteria at that level describe: Allergic or vasomotor rhinitis with nasal polyps. 30% is the maximum schedular rating under DC 6522.
How much does a 30% VA rating for Allergic Rhinitis pay in 2026?
$552.47 per month, tax-free, for a veteran with no dependents (rates effective December 1, 2025) — more with a spouse, children, or dependent parents. If you have other rated conditions, the VA combines ratings using its own math rather than adding them.
Build your Allergic Rhinitis claim documentation
Your first claim builds free, on screen — a personal statement mapped to these criteria and a cited draft medical opinion. No card to sign up.
Educational information about the rating schedule — not legal or medical advice, never a prediction or promise of any rating, and not affiliated with the VA.