Laryngitis, chronic — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 6516)

The VA rates Laryngitis, chronic under Diagnostic Code 6516 at the following tiers: 10%, 30%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Hoarseness, with inflammation of cords or mucous membrane. The maximum 30% rating requires: Hoarseness, with thickening or nodules of cords, polyps, submucous infiltration, or pre-malignant changes on biopsy.

Diagnostic Code 6516 is the VA rating identifier for Laryngitis, chronic within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.

The highest schedular rating for Laryngitis, chronic under DC 6516 is 30%. This tier requires: Hoarseness, with thickening or nodules of cords, polyps, submucous infiltration, or pre-malignant changes on biopsy. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Laryngitis, chronic alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Laryngitis, chronic is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6516. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Laryngitis, chronic may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

Service connection for Laryngitis, chronic requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.