Allergic Rhinitis — VA Disability Rating Criteria (DC 6522)
Diagnostic Code 6522 · 38 CFR §4.97
What Is It?
Allergic rhinitis is chronic inflammation of the nasal passages triggered by allergens such as dust, mold, pollen, or environmental irritants. Veterans commonly develop or worsen rhinitis due to exposure to environmental hazards during service — dust storms, burn pit smoke, vehicle exhaust, and other airborne irritants. Symptoms include nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and post-nasal drip. While it may seem like a minor condition, allergic rhinitis can be a gateway to secondary claims for sleep apnea and sinusitis, and every percentage point counts toward your combined rating.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | Allergic rhinitis with polyps. This is the maximum schedular rating for DC 6522. If nasal polyps are present, the 30% rating is assigned regardless of the degree of obstruction. |
| 10% | Allergic rhinitis without polyps, but with greater than 50% obstruction of the nasal passage on both sides or complete obstruction on one side. |
| 0% | Diagnosed allergic rhinitis without polyps and without greater than 50% obstruction of the nasal passages on both sides, or complete obstruction on one side. |
Evidence Needed
You need: (1) a current diagnosis of allergic rhinitis from a medical provider, (2) evidence linking it to service — either direct exposure to allergens or irritants during service, or secondary to another service-connected condition, and (3) documentation of the severity, specifically whether you have nasal polyps or the degree of nasal obstruction. A CT scan of the sinuses or nasal endoscopy showing polyps or obstruction levels strengthens higher rating claims. Service treatment records showing treatment for nasal or sinus complaints are helpful. If claiming as secondary to burn pit exposure, the PACT Act may provide a presumptive path.
C&P Exam Tips
The C&P exam will include a physical examination of your nasal passages. The examiner will look for polyps, assess the degree of nasal obstruction, and note any swelling or inflammation. Before the exam, do not use nasal decongestant sprays, as they temporarily reduce swelling and may make your obstruction appear less severe than it normally is. Describe your symptoms accurately — how often you experience congestion, whether it is constant or seasonal, and how it affects your breathing, sleep, and daily activities. If you have been told you have polyps, make sure that is documented in your medical records before the exam.
How to File
File on VA Form 21-526EZ. If claiming as direct service connection, describe your in-service exposure to environmental irritants (dust, smoke, chemicals, burn pits). If claiming as secondary to another condition, identify the primary service-connected condition. Veterans who served in Southwest Asia or near burn pits should note this on their application, as rhinitis may qualify for presumptive service connection under the PACT Act. Submit any medical records showing diagnosis, treatment, and imaging results.
Common Mistakes
Many veterans do not claim rhinitis because they consider it too minor. However, even a 0% rating establishes service connection and qualifies you for VA treatment. More importantly, rhinitis is a common foundation for a secondary sleep apnea claim — nasal obstruction contributes to airway problems during sleep. Another mistake is using decongestant sprays before the C&P exam, which temporarily clears the nasal passages and reduces visible obstruction. Veterans also sometimes fail to get imaging done to document polyps; if you suspect polyps, request a CT scan or nasal endoscopy before your exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is allergic rhinitis covered under the PACT Act?
Rhinitis and sinusitis are among the conditions that may qualify for presumptive service connection for veterans who served in Southwest Asia or were exposed to burn pits. Check whether your service location and dates fall within the qualifying criteria.
Can rhinitis lead to a sleep apnea claim?
Yes. Nasal obstruction from rhinitis can contribute to or worsen obstructive sleep apnea. If you have service-connected rhinitis and later develop sleep apnea, you may file a secondary claim linking the two conditions.
What is the maximum rating for allergic rhinitis?
The maximum schedular rating is 30%, which requires the presence of nasal polyps. Without polyps, the maximum is 10%, which requires greater than 50% obstruction on both sides or complete obstruction on one side.