Thumb, long and ring (DC 5135)

Body system: Musculoskeletal SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.71a

Diagnostic Code 5135 covers disabilities affecting your thumb, long finger (middle finger), and ring finger together as a combined condition. The VA rates this at a flat 50% when you have significant functional loss or damage to all three of these fingers on one hand. This is a substantial rating that recognizes how losing the use of your thumb plus two other fingers severely impacts your ability to grip, grasp, and perform daily tasks with that hand.

Rating levels

60% — If you've lost your thumb, long, and ring fingers on your dominant hand, you receive a 60% rating. On the non-dominant hand the same amputation rates at 50%. 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.
50% — If you've lost your thumb, long, and ring fingers on your non-dominant hand, you receive a 50% rating. On the dominant hand the same amputation rates at 60%. 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.