Hand Amputation at Wrist

DC 5125Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5125

Amputation of the hand at or near the wrist joint, removing all fingers, the thumb, and the hand while preserving the forearm. The VA assigns a fixed rating based on whether the amputated hand is the dominant (major) or non-dominant (minor) hand. This amputation qualifies for special monthly compensation and represents loss of all natural grip and fine motor function.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 5125

Rating range

60% – 70%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5125. 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 dominant (major) hand at the wrist. Loss of the dominant hand profoundly impacts writing, self-care, and virtually all daily activities and occupational tasks.

What the VA looks for

Surgical or trauma records of hand amputation at wrist
Dominant hand confirmed in medical records
Severe impairment of all daily activities documented
Retraining to use non-dominant hand documented
Prosthetic fitting and rehabilitation records
Special monthly compensation eligibility documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting dominant vs non-dominant hand — the 10 percent difference (70% dominant vs 60% non-dominant) is significant. Medical records must clearly state hand dominance.
⚠Not claiming special monthly compensation (SMC) — hand amputation at the wrist qualifies for SMC-k at minimum. If both hands are amputated, higher SMC levels apply.
⚠Not filing phantom limb pain as a separate secondary claim — phantom hand pain, tingling, or sensation in the missing fingers is a neurological condition that may warrant its own rating.
⚠Not documenting prosthetic fit issues — skin breakdown, socket problems, and prosthetic limitations should be documented as they affect daily function and may support additional ratings.

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…

Hand Amputation at Wrist

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5125

Rating range

60% – 70%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have amputation of the dominant (major) hand at the wrist. Loss of the dominant hand profoundly impacts writing, self-care, and virtually all daily activities and occupational tasks.

What the VA looks for

Surgical or trauma records of hand amputation at wrist
Dominant hand confirmed in medical records
Severe impairment of all daily activities documented
Retraining to use non-dominant hand documented
Prosthetic fitting and rehabilitation records
Special monthly compensation eligibility documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting dominant vs non-dominant hand — the 10 percent difference (70% dominant vs 60% non-dominant) is significant. Medical records must clearly state hand dominance.

⚠Not claiming special monthly compensation (SMC) — hand amputation at the wrist qualifies for SMC-k at minimum. If both hands are amputated, higher SMC levels apply.

⚠Not filing phantom limb pain as a separate secondary claim — phantom hand pain, tingling, or sensation in the missing fingers is a neurological condition that may warrant its own rating.

⚠Not documenting prosthetic fit issues — skin breakdown, socket problems, and prosthetic limitations should be documented as they affect daily function and may support additional ratings.