Selective Mutism

DC 9499-9403Mental Disorders38 CFR 4.130, DC 9499-9403 — General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders

A condition where you consistently fail to speak in specific social situations (such as work or public settings) despite speaking normally in other situations (such as at home). It is a severe form of social anxiety that goes beyond shyness and significantly impairs occupational and social functioning.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 9499-9403

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.130, DC 9499-9403 — General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

Your condition causes total impairment in your ability to work and function socially. You may be a persistent danger to yourself or others, disoriented, or have severe memory loss.

What the VA looks for

Gross impairment in thought processes or communication
Persistent delusions or hallucinations
Grossly inappropriate behavior
Persistent danger of hurting self or others
Inability to perform activities of daily living
Disorientation to time or place
Memory loss for names of close relatives, own occupation, or own name

Common Pitfalls

⚠Selective mutism being dismissed as shyness or willful behavior — this is a recognized anxiety disorder, not a choice. A formal diagnosis from a mental health professional is essential to establish it as a disability.
⚠Not documenting the specific situations where mutism occurs — the VA needs to understand when and where you cannot speak. Document work meetings, phone calls, medical appointments, and social situations where you are unable to communicate verbally.
⚠Failing to describe occupational impact — inability to speak in workplace settings, on the phone, or in meetings is a major functional impairment. Describe specific job tasks you cannot perform due to mutism.
⚠Not connecting the condition to military service — selective mutism can develop after traumatic experiences, including combat trauma, military sexual trauma, or other service-connected stressors.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Mental Disorders (other than PTSD and Eating Disorders)

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Selective Mutism

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 9499-9403

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your condition causes total impairment in your ability to work and function socially. You may be a persistent danger to yourself or others, disoriented, or have severe memory loss.

What the VA looks for

Gross impairment in thought processes or communication
Persistent delusions or hallucinations
Grossly inappropriate behavior
Persistent danger of hurting self or others
Inability to perform activities of daily living
Disorientation to time or place
Memory loss for names of close relatives, own occupation, or own name

Common Pitfalls

⚠Selective mutism being dismissed as shyness or willful behavior — this is a recognized anxiety disorder, not a choice. A formal diagnosis from a mental health professional is essential to establish it as a disability.

⚠Not documenting the specific situations where mutism occurs — the VA needs to understand when and where you cannot speak. Document work meetings, phone calls, medical appointments, and social situations where you are unable to communicate verbally.

⚠Failing to describe occupational impact — inability to speak in workplace settings, on the phone, or in meetings is a major functional impairment. Describe specific job tasks you cannot perform due to mutism.

⚠Not connecting the condition to military service — selective mutism can develop after traumatic experiences, including combat trauma, military sexual trauma, or other service-connected stressors.