Rhinitis / Sinusitis — VA Rating Guide

The rating ladder

What the VA looks for at each percentage.

How to describe it (and win the rating)

• Count sinus infections/year and antibiotic courses
• Get imaging showing chronic sinusitis or polyps
• 'Incapacitating' = requires bed rest + antibiotics

Evidence that helps

• sinus CT/imaging
• record of infections + antibiotics
• ENT notes

Next steps

Common questions

What is the VA disability rating for rhinitis / sinusitis?

The VA rates rhinitis / sinusitis under 38 CFR diagnostic code 6522. The rating tiers are: 10% — rhinitis: >50% obstruction both sides or complete one side (no polyps); OR sinusitis: 1–2 incapacitating episodes/yr needing 4–6 wks antibiotics, or 3–6 non-incapacitating; 30% — rhinitis with polyps; OR sinusitis: 3+ incapacitating episodes/yr, or >6 non-incapacitating episodes; 50% — sinusitis following radical surgery or chronic osteomyelitis / near-constant. Your exact percentage depends on the severity documented in your records and C&P exam.

How much VA disability compensation is rhinitis / sinusitis?

Monthly pay depends on your assigned rating percentage and your dependents, not the condition alone. Rhinitis / Sinusitis can be rated from 10% to 50%. Use the free US Vet Help disability calculator for your exact 2026 monthly amount.

What evidence do I need for a rhinitis / sinusitis VA claim?

Evidence that helps includes: sinus CT/imaging; record of infections + antibiotics; ENT notes.

How do I get the correct rating for rhinitis / sinusitis?

To be rated accurately: Count sinus infections/year and antibiotic courses; Get imaging showing chronic sinusitis or polyps; 'Incapacitating' = requires bed rest + antibiotics.