Below-Knee Amputation

DC 5165Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5165

Surgical or traumatic amputation of the leg below the knee. The VA assigns a fixed 40% rating for amputation permitting the use of a prosthesis at a point below the knee. This rating recognizes the permanent loss of the lower leg and the functional limitations that follow.

How the VA rates this condition

This condition has a fixed rating under VA regulations. Unlike most conditions, the rating does not vary based on severity. If the VA grants service connection, the rating percentage is set by regulation.

Diagnostic code

DC 5165

Rating range

40% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5165. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

You have amputation of the leg below the knee at a level that permits the use of a prosthetic device. This is the schedular rating for below-knee amputation permitting prosthesis use.

What the VA looks for

Below-knee amputation documented in medical records
Amputation at a level permitting prosthetic use
Service connection for the amputation established
Prosthetic fitting records and usage documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not claiming entitlement to special monthly compensation (SMC) for loss of use of a foot — below-knee amputation qualifies for SMC(k) in addition to the schedular rating.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions caused by altered biomechanics — back pain, opposite knee problems, and hip conditions frequently develop from prosthetic use and compensatory gait.
⚠Not documenting residual limb complications such as phantom pain, skin breakdown, or neuromas — these may warrant additional separate ratings.
⚠Not applying for automobile adaptive equipment and clothing allowance benefits — these are separate entitlements for amputees.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Amputations

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

Below-Knee Amputation

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5165

Rating range

40% – 40%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have amputation of the leg below the knee at a level that permits the use of a prosthetic device. This is the schedular rating for below-knee amputation permitting prosthesis use.

What the VA looks for

Below-knee amputation documented in medical records
Amputation at a level permitting prosthetic use
Service connection for the amputation established
Prosthetic fitting records and usage documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not claiming entitlement to special monthly compensation (SMC) for loss of use of a foot — below-knee amputation qualifies for SMC(k) in addition to the schedular rating.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions caused by altered biomechanics — back pain, opposite knee problems, and hip conditions frequently develop from prosthetic use and compensatory gait.

⚠Not documenting residual limb complications such as phantom pain, skin breakdown, or neuromas — these may warrant additional separate ratings.

⚠Not applying for automobile adaptive equipment and clothing allowance benefits — these are separate entitlements for amputees.