3. Total and permanent loss of speech
When a member has a loss of speech, the member is eligible for a TSGLI benefit for total and permanent loss of speech if the member meets the following standard:
| If the member suffers... | AND the loss of speech will... |
|---|---|
An organic loss of speech (lost the ability to express oneself, both by voice and whisper, through normal organs for speech).* |
not improve (with reasonable certainty) throughout the member's life. |
* If a member uses an artificial appliance, such as a voice box, to simulate speech, he/she is still considered to have suffered an organic loss of speech and is eligible for a TSGLI benefit.
Reviewed/Updated Date: April 14, 2023
