VA Disability Rating for Ring and little (DC 5151)

Body system: Musculoskeletal SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.71aDBQ: DBQ MUSC Amputations

Diagnostic Code 5151 covers injuries or conditions affecting both your ring finger and little finger on the same hand. The VA rates this as a combined condition at 20% disability when both fingers are significantly impaired. This rating recognizes that losing function in two fingers together creates more disability than just adding up individual finger ratings would suggest.

Rating levels

  • 30% — If you've lost your ring and little fingers on your dominant hand, you receive a 30% rating. On the non-dominant hand the same amputation rates at 20%. VA treats the hand you write with as your "major" (dominant) hand; the other is your "minor" (non-dominant) hand, and ratings are 10% lower because loss of function on the non-dominant side is considered less disabling.
  • 20% — If you've lost your ring and little fingers on your non-dominant hand, you receive a 20% rating. On the dominant hand the same amputation rates at 30%. VA treats the hand you write with as your "major" (dominant) hand; the other is your "minor" (non-dominant) hand, and ratings are 10% lower because loss of function on the non-dominant side is considered less disabling.

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.