Aphonia, complete organic (DC 6519)

Body system: Respiratory SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.97

Complete organic aphonia means you've completely lost your ability to speak at a normal volume due to physical damage or disease affecting your vocal cords or voice box. This isn't a psychological condition - it's caused by actual physical problems with the parts of your body that create speech. The VA rates this condition at 60% disability, recognizing that being unable to speak above a whisper significantly impacts your ability to work and communicate in daily life.

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.