VA Disability Rating for Long and little (DC 5150)

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

Diagnostic Code 5150 covers conditions affecting the long bones (like your arm and leg bones) and little finger. The VA rates this at 20% maximum disability. This is actually a cross-reference code that points to other specific diagnostic codes depending on your exact condition - whether it's a fracture, arthritis, or other bone/joint problem affecting these areas.

Rating levels

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