How the VA Rates Deviated Nasal Septum
The plain-English version of the 38 CFR Part 4, DC 6502 criteria a VA rater evaluates Deviated Nasal Septum against, with the 2026 monthly rate at each level. A reference to what the regulation describes — never a prediction of any rating.
Diagnostic code 6502
The rating levels
Criteria paraphrased from 38 CFR Part 4, DC 6502 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.
10%
$180.42/month
Traumatic deviation of the nasal septum with 50 percent obstruction of the nasal passage on both sides, or complete obstruction on one side. 10% is the maximum schedular rating under DC 6502.
Examples from this level’s criteria
- At least 50% blockage of both nostrils, or one nostril fully blocked
- Chronic mouth breathing or nasal congestion
- Documented traumatic (injury) origin of the deviation
- Obstruction confirmed on nasal exam
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.
C&P exam tips for Deviated Nasal Septum
- What wins this rating: an exam (or imaging) documenting the percentage of obstruction on each side — you need ≥50% bilateral or 100% on one side to be compensable.
- Establish that the deviation is traumatic (from an injury) rather than purely congenital.
- Note functional impact: mouth breathing, disrupted sleep, recurrent congestion.
Common mistakes on Deviated Nasal Septum claims
- Expecting more than 10% — that is the schedular maximum for a deviated septum.
- Not having the percentage of obstruction documented on each side.
- Failing to tie the deviation to an in-service injury.
Frequently asked questions
What diagnostic code does the VA use for Deviated Nasal Septum?
Deviated Nasal Septum is rated under 38 CFR Part 4, DC 6502 — diagnostic code 6502.
What is the highest schedular VA rating for Deviated Nasal Septum?
10% is the highest level in the rating schedule for Deviated Nasal Septum. The criteria at that level describe: Traumatic deviation of the nasal septum with 50 percent obstruction of the nasal passage on both sides, or complete obstruction on one side. 10% is the maximum schedular rating under DC 6502.
How much does a 10% VA rating for Deviated Nasal Septum pay in 2026?
$180.42 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 Deviated Nasal Septum claim documentation
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Start your claim — freeEducational information about the rating schedule — not legal or medical advice, never a prediction or promise of any rating, and not affiliated with the VA.