VA Disability Rating for Aphonia, complete organic (DC 6519)

Body system: Respiratory SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.97DBQ: DBQ ENT Sinusitis, Rhinitis and Other Conditions of the Nose, Throat, Larynx and Pharynx

DC 6519 covers complete organic aphonia, the loss of the voice from a physical cause. The VA rates it at 100% when you are constantly unable to communicate by speech and 60% when you are constantly unable to speak above a whisper (38 CFR 4.97). Incomplete aphonia is rated under DC 6516.

Rating levels

  • 100% — You cannot speak at all due to a physical problem with your vocal cords, voice box, or related organs (not due to psychological reasons). This means you are completely unable to use your voice to communicate through speech on a constant, ongoing basis.
  • 60% — You cannot speak any louder than a whisper at any time due to a physical problem with your vocal cords or voice box. This means your voice is permanently damaged or affected by an organic condition (a physical disorder rather than a psychological one), and you can never raise your voice above a whisper level no matter how hard you try.

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.

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The plain-English rating criteria and Board decision data for DC 6502.
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The plain-English rating criteria and Board decision data for DC 6504.
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The plain-English rating criteria and Board decision data for DC 6510.
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The plain-English rating criteria and Board decision data for DC 6511.
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The plain-English rating criteria and Board decision data for DC 6512.