Multiple Finger Amputation Combinations

DC 5126Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5126

Amputation of two or more fingers on the same hand. The VA rates multiple finger amputations using a combination table that considers which fingers are amputated, the level of each amputation, and whether the affected hand is dominant or non-dominant. Combined ratings range from 30 to 70 percent depending on the combination. Certain combinations may qualify for loss of use of the hand.

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 5126

Rating range

30% – 70%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5126. 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 all five digits (thumb and all four fingers) on the dominant (major) hand. This constitutes effective loss of use of the hand and qualifies for special monthly compensation at the hand amputation level.

What the VA looks for

All five digits amputated on dominant hand documented
Complete loss of hand function assessed
Loss of use of hand determination documented
Equivalence to hand amputation rating established
Special monthly compensation at hand loss level documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting each finger amputation level individually — the combined rating depends on the specific combination and level of each finger amputation. Each digit must be documented separately with X-rays showing the exact level.
⚠Not documenting dominant vs non-dominant hand — the combined rating differs significantly based on hand dominance. Medical records must clearly state which hand is dominant.
⚠Not requesting loss-of-use evaluation — certain multi-finger amputations (especially those involving the thumb plus two or more fingers) may meet the threshold for loss of use of the hand, which provides additional SMC benefits.
⚠Not claiming special monthly compensation (SMC) — multiple finger amputations often qualify for SMC-k, especially when loss of use of the hand is established.
⚠Not filing phantom limb pain as a separate secondary claim — phantom pain in multiple missing fingers should be documented and may warrant a separate neurological rating.
⚠Not documenting prosthetic fit issues — multi-finger prostheses, partial hand prostheses, and adaptive devices should be documented along with their functional effectiveness.

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…

Multiple Finger Amputation Combinations

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5126

Rating range

30% – 70%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

All five digits amputated on dominant hand documented
Complete loss of hand function assessed
Loss of use of hand determination documented
Equivalence to hand amputation rating established
Special monthly compensation at hand loss level documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting each finger amputation level individually — the combined rating depends on the specific combination and level of each finger amputation. Each digit must be documented separately with X-rays showing the exact level.

⚠Not documenting dominant vs non-dominant hand — the combined rating differs significantly based on hand dominance. Medical records must clearly state which hand is dominant.

⚠Not requesting loss-of-use evaluation — certain multi-finger amputations (especially those involving the thumb plus two or more fingers) may meet the threshold for loss of use of the hand, which provides additional SMC benefits.

⚠Not claiming special monthly compensation (SMC) — multiple finger amputations often qualify for SMC-k, especially when loss of use of the hand is established.

⚠Not filing phantom limb pain as a separate secondary claim — phantom pain in multiple missing fingers should be documented and may warrant a separate neurological rating.

⚠Not documenting prosthetic fit issues — multi-finger prostheses, partial hand prostheses, and adaptive devices should be documented along with their functional effectiveness.