Long and ring (DC 5149)

Body system: Musculoskeletal SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.71a

Diagnostic Code 5149 covers conditions affecting both your long finger (middle finger) and ring finger together. The VA rates this combination at 20% disability when both fingers are significantly impacted by the same condition or injury. This rating recognizes that losing function in two adjacent fingers creates more disability than just adding up individual finger ratings.

Rating levels

  • 30% — If you've lost your long and ring 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 long and ring 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.