Little Finger Amputation

DC 5156Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5156

Amputation of the little (fifth, pinky) finger at various levels. The little finger contributes to grip strength and ulnar-sided hand function. The VA assigns ratings based on the level of amputation and whether metacarpal resection is involved. At the PIP joint level, the rating may be noncompensable, while higher amputations receive 10 to 20 percent.

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 5156

Rating range

0% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5156. 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 little finger through the proximal phalanx on your dominant (major) hand, or amputation with metacarpal resection on either hand. This higher-level amputation more significantly affects grip and hand function.

What the VA looks for

Little finger amputation above PIP joint on dominant hand
Or little finger amputation with metacarpal resection (either hand)
X-ray confirming metacarpal bone involvement
Significant impact on grip strength documented
Occupational impact assessment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the exact level of amputation — the rating depends on whether the amputation is at the PIP joint (0%), through the proximal phalanx (10-20%), or with metacarpal resection (20%). X-rays and operative reports must specify the level.
⚠Not documenting dominant vs non-dominant hand — the rating for proximal phalanx-level amputation differs based on hand dominance (10% minor vs 20% major).
⚠Not claiming special monthly compensation (SMC) — when combined with other finger or hand disabilities, little finger amputation may contribute to loss-of-use determinations.
⚠Not filing phantom limb pain as a separate secondary claim — phantom pain or sensation in the missing finger should be documented and may warrant a separate rating.
⚠Not documenting prosthetic fit issues — finger prostheses and adaptive grip devices should be documented.

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…

Little Finger Amputation

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5156

Rating range

0% – 20%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Little finger amputation above PIP joint on dominant hand
Or little finger amputation with metacarpal resection (either hand)
X-ray confirming metacarpal bone involvement
Significant impact on grip strength documented
Occupational impact assessment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the exact level of amputation — the rating depends on whether the amputation is at the PIP joint (0%), through the proximal phalanx (10-20%), or with metacarpal resection (20%). X-rays and operative reports must specify the level.

⚠Not documenting dominant vs non-dominant hand — the rating for proximal phalanx-level amputation differs based on hand dominance (10% minor vs 20% major).

⚠Not claiming special monthly compensation (SMC) — when combined with other finger or hand disabilities, little finger amputation may contribute to loss-of-use determinations.

⚠Not filing phantom limb pain as a separate secondary claim — phantom pain or sensation in the missing finger should be documented and may warrant a separate rating.

⚠Not documenting prosthetic fit issues — finger prostheses and adaptive grip devices should be documented.