Laryngitis, chronic DC 6516
VA rates it under diagnostic code 6516 in 38 CFR 4.97. Body system: Breathing & sleep.
How VA rates it
The schedule allows 2 rating levels for this code: 10%, and 30%. VA picks the level whose criteria best match your symptoms and records.
Source: 38 CFR 4.97 on eCFR. Read the full criteria there before you file.
Rating levels and criteria
| Rating | What the schedule says |
|---|---|
| 30% | Hoarseness, with thickening or nodules of cords, polyps, submucous infiltration, or pre-malignant changes on biopsy |
| 10% | Hoarseness, with inflammation of cords or mucous membrane |
Criteria text from 38 CFR 4.97, eCFR as of November 10, 2026. The eCFR is the official source if anything here differs.
Commonly claimed as secondary to
If one of these is already service connected, you may be able to claim this condition as secondary to it.
GERD / acid reflux DC 7206 Established link
Acid that reaches the throat can inflame the voice box, causing chronic laryngitis and hoarseness.
What to gather: An ear, nose and throat diagnosis of chronic laryngitis and a medical opinion linking it to your GERD.
Sources: 38 CFR 3.310 (secondary service connection); NIDDK (NIH): Definition and facts for GER and GERD; MedlinePlus: Laryngitis; 38 CFR 4.97
Check your claim
The claim finder asks about your service and current ratings, then lists conditions you may be able to claim. The calculator shows what a new rating does to your combined rating and monthly pay.
Open the claim finderOpen the VA rating calculator
Free help: an accredited VSO representative can file and track your claim at no cost. Find one near you by ZIP code.
Rating schedule data as of November 10, 2026. Secondary and presumptive links checked November 13, 2026.
Not affiliated with the VA. VA decides ratings. Free help from an accredited VSO is available at no cost.