★ Respiratory
Chronic Bronchitis VA Rating
38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6600
Overview
Chronic bronchitis is defined by chronic cough with sputum production for 3+ months in 2 consecutive years.
Often co-exists with COPD; only one of these can typically be rated to avoid pyramiding.
How to Establish Service Connection
- Direct: documented in-service respiratory illness.
- Presumptive: PACT Act burn pit / airborne hazard exposure.
Rating Criteria
Paraphrased from 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6600
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | FEV-1 71–80%; or FEV-1/FVC 71–80%; or DLCO 66–80%. |
| 30% | FEV-1 56–70%; or FEV-1/FVC 56–70%; or DLCO 56–65%. |
| 60% | FEV-1 40–55%; or FEV-1/FVC 40–55%; or DLCO 40–55%. |
| 100% | FEV-1 <40%; or DLCO <40%; or cor pulmonale; or requires outpatient oxygen. |
See what each percentage pays in 2026 and how it combines with your current rating →
Evidence Checklist
- PFTs.
- Imaging.
- Documentation of chronic productive cough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Chronic Bronchitis claim or denial?
Four fields. A VA-accredited claims agent reviews it and responds within 3–5 business days. Contingent fees apply only to awarded past-due benefits on appeals — never on initial claims.
Requesting a consultation does not create representation and is not a guarantee of any outcome. Representation begins only after a written fee agreement and VA Form 21-22a are signed.
Educational content only — not legal advice and not medical advice. Rating criteria on this page are summarized in plain English from 38 CFR Part 4; consult VA.gov or the current Code of Federal Regulations for official criteria. This page provides general education about how the VA rates this condition; it is not individualized advice, does not establish a representation relationship, and should not be used to self-diagnose, self-treat, or decide a course of action without speaking to a qualified clinician and a VA-accredited representative. Outcomes depend on each veteran's individual facts, evidence, and the adjudicator's judgment; no specific rating, effective date, or other result is guaranteed. Oakridge Claims is a private business and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the US Department of Veterans Affairs.