EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. Not legal or medical advice. Not affiliated with the VA.
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Respiratory Condition VA Disability Rating
DC 6600-6847 | 38 C.F.R. § 4.97 | M21-1, Part IV.ii.7
OVERVIEW
Respiratory conditions rated under 38 C.F.R. 4.97 using PFT results (FEV-1, FVC, DLCO) or specific condition criteria. Post-bronchodilator results are used unless pre-bronchodilator results are lower. PACT Act created presumptive connection for burn pit exposure conditions.
RATING CRITERIA (4 LEVELS)
100% -- FEV-1 <40% predicted
FEV-1 less than 40% of predicted, or FEV-1/FVC less than 40%, or more than one attack per week with respiratory failure.
60% -- FEV-1 40-55%
FEV-1 40-55% of predicted, or monthly physician visits for exacerbations, or intermittent systemic corticosteroids.
30% -- FEV-1 56-70%
FEV-1 56-70% of predicted, or daily inhalational or oral bronchodilator therapy.
10% -- FEV-1 71-80%
FEV-1 71-80% of predicted, or intermittent inhalational or oral bronchodilator therapy.
KEY EVIDENCE TO GATHER
-Service treatment records
-Current medical diagnosis and treatment records
-Buddy/lay statements
-Prescription history
-Employment impact documentation
-Any relevant diagnostic testing
C&P EXAM TIPS (5)
1.Bring all relevant medical records and a written list of symptoms.
2.Report your worst days, not your best. The VA rates based on overall impairment.
3.Document how the condition affects daily activities, work, and relationships.
4.Mention all medications and their side effects.
5.Bring buddy statements from people who observe your symptoms.
EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. NOT LEGAL OR MEDICAL ADVICE.
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026