38 CFR Part 4 — 38 CFR § 4.97
Asbestosis
dc-6833-asbestosis
Respiratory
Diagnostic code
6833
Why your DC matters: DC 6833 is the exact code the VA uses to rate this condition. It determines which symptoms unlock which percentage, what evidence the rater looks for, and which secondaries are most likely to be approved.
Last verified against 38 CFR (eCFR Part 4):
Rating criteria (38 CFR Part 4)
Diagnostic code 6833 — Asbestosis — is listed under 38 CFR § 4.97 in 38 CFR Part 4. The paragraphs below summarize how this code is used; the official schedule text controls exact percentages, formulas, and notes.
Schedule summary (educational, not a substitute for the regulation): Educational index row from the rating schedule naming convention; confirm exact diagnostic code, effective date, and criteria in the current eCFR Part 4.
Exact rating criteria: Open Part 4 in the eCFR (link under “Official source” below). Locate your diagnostic code number (6833) in the correct body-system subpart, or use Find in Page (Ctrl+F / ⌘F) for “6833”. Copy the verbatim rating table, including any parenthetical notes, exceptions, and cross-references, for the version of Part 4 that applies to your effective date.
Effective dates & which schedule version applies
Which diagnostic code, percentage, and effective date apply depends on the facts of your claim and the version of the rating schedule in force for the period being decided. Generally, VA applies the schedule in effect at the specified time under 38 U.S.C. § 5110 and implementing rules, subject to exceptions (e.g., protected ratings, liberalizing law changes—see regulation and VA manual policy as applicable).
For older claims, the **current** eCFR may not match the text that applied years ago. If your decision references a prior percentage or code, compare against the Part 4 text **as of** your claim’s relevant dates; historical Federal Register / CFR snapshots may be needed for precise comparison.
The “Last verified” date on this page is when we last checked this educational summary against the electronic CFR—not the date of any VA policy or your personal claim decision.
Notes for your claim
Evidence: Show that your diagnosis and severity match the factors the schedule names for DC 6833 (e.g., measurements, frequency, treatment, functional loss), with medical and lay evidence as appropriate.
C&P exams: Results should reflect the schedule’s requirements (correct joints measured, correct formulas). If the exam omits required findings, consider submitting records or requesting clarification.
If you disagree with the DC, percentage, or effective date, review the Part 4 text for your period and consider a supplemental claim or appeal with a VA-accredited representative.
This site does not provide legal advice.
Official source
38 CFR Part 4 (eCFR) — locate diagnostic code 6833 in the subpart for your body system (use Find in Page if needed).
DC 6833 (asbestosis) rates under the General Rating Formula for Interstitial Lung Disease — keyed to FVC, DLCO, and exercise capacity. Critical clarification on lane: asbestosis is NOT a PACT Act presumptive condition (PACT covers burn pit / airborne hazards, primarily for post-9/11 service). Asbestos exposure has its own established service-connection framework — for Navy shipyard workers, boiler tenders, machinist mates, hull maintenance, and other occupational MOS exposures (typically WWII through Vietnam-era service). M21-1 lays out the asbestos-exposure development requirements. The tactical play is (1) anchoring exposure via MOS / unit history, (2) anchoring the diagnosis via HRCT showing characteristic pleural plaques + interstitial fibrosis, and (3) pursuing the highest tier supported by current PFTs. Outpatient oxygen therapy = automatic 100%.
Rating Tiers — What Each Percentage Requires
| Rating | What It Takes | Evidence That Supports It |
|---|---|---|
| 100% | FVC < 50% predicted; OR DLCO (SB) < 40% predicted; OR maximum exercise capacity < 15 ml/kg/min O2 consumption with cardiorespiratory limitation; OR cor pulmonale or pulmonary hypertension; OR requires outpatient oxygen therapy. | PFT report showing FVC or DLCO in range; cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET); echo showing pulmonary HTN; outpatient O2 prescription. |
| 60% | FVC 50-64% predicted; OR DLCO (SB) 40-55% predicted; OR maximum exercise capacity 15-20 ml/kg/min O2 with cardiorespiratory limitation. | PFT or CPET in range. |
| 30% | FVC 65-74% predicted; OR DLCO (SB) 56-65% predicted. | PFT in range. |
| 10% | FVC 75-80% predicted; OR DLCO (SB) 66-80% predicted. | PFT in range. |
| 0% | FVC and DLCO above 80% predicted with no functional impairment. | Imaging-confirmed asbestosis without measurable functional impairment. |
What Qualifies as 'Asbestosis' Under DC 6833?
Documented in-service asbestos exposure
Service in asbestos-exposure-prone MOS / occupation per M21-1. Navy shipyards, boiler rooms, hull maintenance, aircraft maintenance, construction battalions. Typically WWII through Vietnam-era service.
Bilateral pleural plaques + interstitial fibrosis on HRCT
Pathognomonic imaging features. Pleural plaques (calcified or non-calcified) confirm asbestos exposure history. Subpleural reticular fibrosis (sometimes with honeycombing) confirms asbestosis specifically.
Rated under General Rating Formula for Interstitial Lung Disease
Tier ladder based on FVC, DLCO, exercise capacity, and oxygen requirement. Disjunctive — any one measure in range triggers the tier.
NOT a PACT Act presumptive condition
Asbestosis has its own service-connection framework via M21-1 asbestos-exposure development. Distinct from PACT Act burn pit / airborne hazard presumptions. File under the asbestos framework, not PACT.
Language Your Rater Needs to See
These are the exact (or near-exact) regulatory phrases that unlock specific tiers. If your DBQ or C&P report doesn't use this vocabulary, the rater may default to a lower percentage even when symptoms qualify.
“Requires outpatient oxygen therapy”
Clean 100% gate. Continuous home O2 prescription = automatic 100% under the interstitial lung disease formula. Pull the O2 prescription + DME (durable medical equipment) records.
“Cor pulmonale or pulmonary hypertension”
Alternative 100% path independent of PFTs. Echo showing RV dilation, RV pressure > 25 mmHg, or RHC-confirmed PH qualifies.
“FVC % predicted / DLCO (SB) % predicted / maximum exercise capacity”
The schedule is a DISJUNCTIVE ladder — ANY ONE of the three pulmonary measures triggers the tier. DLCO often degrades earlier than FVC in interstitial disease; if FVC is borderline, DLCO may push you up a tier.
“Asbestos exposure + bilateral pleural plaques + interstitial fibrosis on HRCT”
Anchors the asbestosis diagnosis vs. generic interstitial lung disease. Pleural plaques are pathognomonic for asbestos exposure (calcified or non-calcified). HRCT is the imaging modality of record.
Evidence Checklist — Specific to This Condition
Service records documenting asbestos-exposure MOS / unit history
CRITICALNavy shipyard (boiler tender, machinist mate, hull maintenance), Marine engineer, Army construction battalion, Air Force aircraft maintenance. M21-1 lists qualifying occupations. Anchors exposure.
HRCT chest with asbestos-specific findings
CRITICALBilateral pleural plaques (often calcified), subpleural reticular interstitial fibrosis, honeycombing in advanced disease. Distinguishes asbestosis from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Recent PFTs — FVC, FEV1, DLCO
CRITICALFull PFT with spirometry + diffusing capacity. Anchors every tier. DLCO often most sensitive early.
Pulmonology consult notes with functional assessment
CRITICALExercise tolerance, oxygen saturation on 6-minute walk test, supplemental O2 needs.
Cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) if available
IMPORTANTMaximum O2 consumption (VO2 max) drives the alternate path at 60% and 100% tiers.
Echocardiogram for pulmonary hypertension
IMPORTANTRight ventricular pressure, RV dilation. Alternative 100% path via cor pulmonale / pulmonary HTN.
Pleural plaque biopsy (rare)
SUPPORTINGPathologic confirmation if HRCT is equivocal. Asbestos bodies on histology are pathognomonic.
C&P Exam Tips
Bring recent PFT with full panel — spirometry + DLCO
DLCO is often the most sensitive early measure of interstitial disease. Don't accept FVC-only reports.
Bring HRCT report with explicit mention of pleural plaques
Pleural plaques are pathognomonic for asbestos exposure. Anchors the diagnosis.
Document supplemental oxygen needs
Outpatient O2 = automatic 100%. Pull prescription + DME delivery records.
Don't downplay exercise limitations
Dyspnea on exertion, supplemental O2 use, inability to climb stairs — describe functional impact concretely. Supports CPET tier discussion.
Common Mistakes That Cost Veterans Points
Confusing asbestosis with PACT Act lane
Asbestosis is NOT a PACT Act presumptive (PACT covers burn pit / post-9/11 airborne hazards). Asbestos exposure has its own established framework via M21-1. The development requirements are different — don't file under PACT presumptive provisions if you're asbestos-exposed.
Filing without HRCT documentation of pleural plaques
CXR alone is insufficient — pleural plaques are best seen on HRCT. Without imaging confirmation, the diagnosis is contested.
Accepting FVC-only PFT report
DLCO often degrades earlier than FVC in interstitial disease. If FVC is borderline 80% but DLCO is 60%, you're at 30% tier — but only if DLCO was tested.
Not pursuing lung cancer secondary if smoker + asbestos
Asbestos + smoking synergistic for lung cancer risk. Mesothelioma is the asbestos-specific cancer; lung adenocarcinoma is also elevated. Direct secondary if cancer develops after established asbestos exposure.
Tactical Plays
⚡ Anchor exposure via MOS / unit history per M21-1
Asbestos service connection requires documenting probable in-service exposure. M21-1 lists qualifying occupations — Navy shipyard workers (boiler tenders, machinist mates, hull maintenance), Marine engineers, Army construction battalion, Air Force aircraft maintenance with brake/asbestos work. Pull DD-214, service treatment records, and unit histories establishing the exposure-prone MOS. This anchors the SC nexus.
⚡ Get HRCT, not just chest X-ray
Pleural plaques (pathognomonic for asbestos exposure) and early interstitial fibrosis are often invisible on CXR but clear on HRCT. Demand HRCT chest with explicit assessment for pleural plaques and asbestosis. Without HRCT, the diagnosis is contested and the rating is unstable.
⚡ Pursue DLCO, not just FVC
DLCO often degrades earlier than FVC in interstitial lung disease. If FVC is borderline at 80% but DLCO is 60%, you're at the 30% tier — but only if DLCO was tested. Demand full PFT with diffusing capacity at every pulmonology visit.
⚡ Outpatient O2 = automatic 100% — don't underclaim
The interstitial lung disease formula includes 'requires outpatient oxygen therapy' as a 100% trigger independent of PFTs. If you're on home O2 (continuous or nocturnal), the rating is 100% automatic. Pull the O2 prescription + DME (durable medical equipment) delivery records.
⚡ Build the mesothelioma / lung cancer secondary file
Asbestos exposure carries lifetime cancer risk. Pleural mesothelioma is essentially pathognomonic. Lung cancer (adenocarcinoma) is multiplicatively elevated with concurrent tobacco use. If cancer develops, the secondary pathway is direct — don't refile as a new direct claim.
Secondary Conditions to File With This One
Mesothelioma (asbestos-specific cancer)
STRONGPleural mesothelioma is essentially pathognomonic for asbestos exposure. Often rated 100% during active disease. Direct presumptive secondary if asbestosis is SC.
Lung cancer (asbestos + smoking synergy)
STRONGDC 6819
Asbestos + tobacco multiplicative risk. Lung adenocarcinoma rates 100% during active treatment + 6 months. Direct secondary pathway.
Pulmonary hypertension / cor pulmonale
MODERATEAdvanced interstitial fibrosis causes secondary PH. Rates separately under DC 7007 or alternative 100% path under DC 6833.
Right heart failure
MODERATEDC 7007
Cor pulmonale from interstitial disease causes RV failure. Rates separately.
Depression secondary to chronic respiratory disease
MODERATEDC 9434
Progressive interstitial lung disease has well-documented depression comorbidity.
Pleural plaques alone (without parenchymal disease)
SITUATIONALAsymptomatic pleural plaques without measurable PFT impairment may rate 0%. Document for service-connection purposes even if non-compensable initially — supports future progression claims.
Compensation Scenarios
2026 rates (effective Dec 1, 2025, per va.gov)
0% — single, no dependents
TOTAL
$0.00/mo
Imaging-confirmed asbestosis, normal PFTs.
10% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$180.42
TOTAL
$180.42/mo
FVC 75-80% OR DLCO 66-80%.
30% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$552.47
TOTAL
$552.47/mo
FVC 65-74% OR DLCO 56-65%.
60% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$1,435.02
TOTAL
$1,435.02/mo
FVC 50-64% OR DLCO 40-55% OR exercise capacity 15-20 ml/kg/min.
100% — single, no dependents
Base rating
$3,938.58
TOTAL
$3,938.58/mo
FVC < 50% OR DLCO < 40% OR outpatient O2 OR cor pulmonale.
100% DC 6833 + 100% DC 6819 lung cancer (active)
Base rating
$3,938.58
TOTAL
$3,938.58/mo
Both 100% — already at ceiling; opens SMC L/M analysis.
Note: Amounts are approximations rounded to nearest dollar. Actual comp varies with effective date, dependents (spouse, children, parents — each adds), Aid & Attendance, and additional disabilities. Combined ratings use VA Math (§ 4.25), not simple addition.
Key Definitions
🪨What are Pleural Plaques?
Pleural plaques = focal areas of thickening on the parietal pleura, often calcified. Pathognomonic for asbestos exposure. Can be present without parenchymal disease (asbestosis); they confirm exposure history. Best seen on HRCT chest.
↔️Asbestosis vs. Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF)?
Both are interstitial lung diseases with fibrotic patterns on imaging. Asbestosis is distinguished by (1) documented asbestos exposure history, (2) pleural plaques on HRCT (pathognomonic), (3) subpleural / lower-zone predominance. IPF (DC 6825) is idiopathic — no specific exposure cause identified.
📋Why isn't asbestosis a PACT Act presumptive?
PACT Act (Honoring Our PACT Act of 2022) covers burn pit and airborne hazard exposure for post-9/11 service primarily — added new presumptives like glioblastoma, kidney cancer, certain respiratory cancers. Asbestos exposure (WWII through Vietnam-era predominantly) has its own established service-connection framework via M21-1 asbestos development. Different lanes, different presumption mechanics.
🫁What's the DLCO test?
DLCO (diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide) measures gas exchange across the alveolar-capillary membrane. Single-breath technique (DLCO SB). Degrades early in interstitial lung disease, often before FVC drops. Critical for staging asbestosis severity.
How to File Your Claim
Pull service records establishing asbestos-exposure MOS
DD-214 + MOS records + unit histories. Anchor per M21-1 asbestos-exposure occupation list.
Get HRCT chest with explicit assessment for pleural plaques and asbestosis
Pathognomonic imaging features anchor the diagnosis.
Pull full PFTs — spirometry + DLCO
DLCO is critical; FVC-only reports miss early disease.
File 21-526EZ specifying 'asbestosis (DC 6833)' with asbestos-exposure MOS noted
File under M21-1 asbestos framework, NOT PACT Act provisions.
Build mesothelioma / lung cancer secondary file proactively
Lifetime cancer risk elevated. Periodic surveillance recommended.
Typical Claim Timeline
File initial claim
Day 0–7: Submit VA Form 21-526EZ with all medical evidence on file
VA acknowledges claim
Week 1–2: Receive confirmation letter and claim tracking number
C&P examination scheduled
Month 1–3: VA contracts an exam vendor and sends you appointment notice
Attend C&P exam
Bring your full evidence package; describe symptoms on your worst days, not your best
Decision & rating notice
Month 3–6: Decision letter with rating percentage and effective date
First payment & retro back pay
Within 15 days of decision; retroactive to claim date (or effective date if earlier)
Timeline varies by case complexity and VA regional office workload. Some claims resolve faster; others take longer.
Important Considerations
NOT a PACT Act condition
Asbestosis has its own M21-1 asbestos-exposure framework, distinct from PACT Act burn pit presumptions. File under the correct lane.
HRCT > CXR — demand it
Pleural plaques and early asbestosis are often invisible on CXR but clear on HRCT. The diagnosis depends on imaging.
DLCO often degrades before FVC
Demand full PFT with diffusing capacity. DLCO-only impairment at 56-65% = 30% tier; if only FVC tested, tier may be understated.
Mesothelioma risk lifelong — surveillance matters
Asbestos exposure carries lifetime cancer risk. Mesothelioma is pathognomonic. Annual chest imaging recommended for SC asbestosis patients.
Related Tools & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is asbestosis a PACT Act presumptive condition?
No — asbestosis is NOT on the PACT Act presumptive list. The PACT Act covers burn pit and airborne hazard exposure for post-9/11 service primarily. Asbestosis service connection runs through the established M21-1 asbestos-exposure framework — for Navy shipyard, boiler tender, machinist mate, and other occupational MOS exposures (typically WWII through Vietnam-era service). Different lane, different presumption mechanics.
What MOS qualifies for asbestos exposure?
Per M21-1: Navy shipyard workers (boiler tenders, machinist mates, hull maintenance, engineers), Marine engineers, Army construction battalion, Air Force aircraft maintenance involving asbestos brake/insulation work. Other industrial occupations involving asbestos materials. DD-214 + MOS records + unit histories anchor the exposure.
Do I need HRCT, or is chest X-ray enough?
HRCT is the imaging standard for asbestosis diagnosis. Pleural plaques (pathognomonic for asbestos exposure) and early interstitial fibrosis are often invisible on chest X-ray but clear on HRCT. Demand HRCT with explicit assessment for pleural plaques and asbestos-related interstitial fibrosis.
Does outpatient oxygen guarantee a 100% rating?
Yes — under the General Rating Formula for Interstitial Lung Disease, 'requires outpatient oxygen therapy' is a 100% trigger independent of PFTs. Continuous home O2, nocturnal O2, or supplemental O2 for exertion all qualify. Pull the O2 prescription + DME delivery records.
Can I claim mesothelioma if I'm rated for asbestosis?
Yes — pleural mesothelioma is essentially pathognomonic for asbestos exposure. If mesothelioma develops, it's a direct presumptive secondary to SC asbestosis. Typically rated 100% during active disease. Build the surveillance and secondary file proactively.
Official Regulatory Source
Asbestosis is rated under 38 CFR § 4.97, DC 6833 — General Rating Formula for Interstitial Lung Disease (FVC / DLCO / exercise capacity / O2 requirement).
38 CFR § 4.97 — Respiratory System (eCFR) →Scroll to DC 6833. The Interstitial Lung Disease formula applies to DC 6825-6833 generally. Service connection runs through M21-1 asbestos-exposure framework — not PACT Act.
Next Steps
If your rating decision lists DC 6833, compare your current symptoms and documentation against the criteria above. Consider:
- Requesting a copy of your rating decision and C&P exam report from the VA
- Gathering all relevant medical records (VA and private providers)
- Documenting functional limitations and how they impact work and daily activities
- Obtaining a nexus letter if needed to establish or strengthen service connection
- Filing for secondary conditions that may be related to this primary condition
- Contacting a VA-accredited VSO, claims agent, or attorney to review your file
This is general educational information only — not legal or medical advice.
Also: DC code lookup (tools) lists the same index in a compact layout.
Source: 38 CFR Part 4, Diagnostic Code 6833 • va.gov
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This page provides general educational information only based on public VA regulations (38 CFR) and va.gov resources. It is not legal, medical, or claims assistance. Ratings and service connections are decided case-by-case by the VA based on the individual veteran’s evidence. We do not prepare claims, generate documents, or provide personalized advice. Always consult a VA-accredited Veterans Service Organization (VSO), attorney, or your physician for help with your specific situation. Verify the latest rules on va.gov.