Aphonia, complete organic — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 6519)

The VA rates Aphonia, complete organic under Diagnostic Code 6519 at the following tiers: 60%. The minimum 60% rating requires: Constant inability to speak above a whisper. The maximum 60% rating requires: Constant inability to speak above a whisper.

Diagnostic Code 6519 is the VA rating identifier for Aphonia, complete organic within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.

The highest schedular rating for Aphonia, complete organic under DC 6519 is 60%. This tier requires: Constant inability to speak above a whisper. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Aphonia, complete organic alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Aphonia, complete organic is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6519. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Aphonia, complete organic may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

Service connection for Aphonia, complete organic requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.