Free · From a nonprofit · No account needed
Larynx, stenosis of, including residuals of laryngeal trauma (unilateral or bilateral)
Diagnostic code 6520 · Respiratory system · 38 CFR 4.97
VA has proposed changing these rules
The proposal (87 FR 8474 (supplemental proposal 89 FR 74162, Sept. 12, 2024), published February 15, 2022) is not in effect. The rules on this page still apply until VA publishes a final rule.
Read the proposal in the Federal RegisterRating criteria: the exact regulation text
Quoted from 38 CFR 4.97. The "Rating" column is the percentage VA assigns for that level.
| Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| 6520 Larynx, stenosis of, including residuals of laryngeal trauma (unilateral or bilateral): | |
| Forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV-1) less than 40 percent of predicted value, with Flow-Volume Loop compatible with upper airway obstruction, or; permanent tracheostomy | 100 |
| FEV-1 of 40- to 55-percent predicted, with Flow-Volume Loop compatible with upper airway obstruction | 60 |
| FEV-1 of 56- to 70-percent predicted, with Flow-Volume Loop compatible with upper airway obstruction | 30 |
| FEV-1 of 71- to 80-percent predicted, with Flow-Volume Loop compatible with upper airway obstruction | 10 |
| Note: Or evaluate as aphonia (DC 6519). |
Where else the regulation mentions this code
These lines appear under other codes or headings in the schedule and name this code.
Rate the residuals of partial laryngectomy as laryngitis (DC 6516), aphonia (DC 6519), or stenosis of larynx (DC 6520).
Notes for the whole table
1 Review for entitlement to special monthly compensation under § 3.350 of this chapter.
Related codes in the regulation
- 6519 Aphonia, complete organicRated using
- 6518 Laryngectomy, totalMentioned together
The VA exam form for this condition
VA examiners record their findings on a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ). Reading it shows you what the exam will measure and ask.
Rules that apply to this body system
Where this comes from
38 CFR 4.97, VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities, from the official eCFR.
Regulation text current as of October 16, 2026.
Change history for this code (38 CFR Part 4, Appendix A): Criterion October 7, 1996.
Read it on eCFR.govInformation, not advice
This page shows the text of VA's rating regulation for information. It is not a rating estimate, and it is not legal or medical advice. VA decides every rating on the evidence in your file.
An accredited representative can help you with your claim for free. Find a VA-accredited representative.
File this claim for free
VetEZ Claim is a free app from VetClaims Alliance, a nonprofit. Start with an Intent to File (VA Form 21-0966): it can hold your effective date, the date back pay can start from, for up to a year while you get your claim ready. You review and sign each form, and the app sends it to VA. No subscriptions or paid upgrades.