Loss of Use of Both Hands VA Disability Rating

VA Rating Tiers

How the VA Evaluates Loss of Use of Both Hands

DC 5109 is a single row in 38 CFR 4.71a's "combinations of disabilities" table: "Loss of use of both hands" at 100 percent. There is no lower tier under this code. The loss-of-use standard is stated in 4.71a's notes to the amputation ratings, note (f): "Loss of use of the hand will be held to exist when no effective function remains other than that which would be equally well served by an amputation stump with a suitable prosthetic appliance." Both hands must meet that standard — one hand alone is DC 5125, "Hand, loss of use of," at 70 percent for the dominant (major) extremity and 60 percent for the non-dominant (minor). Where the cause is complete traumatic paralysis, DC 5244 directs: "Quadriplegia: Rate separately under diagnostic codes 5109 and 5110 and combine evaluations in accordance with § 4.25."

Vetrify editorial estimates informed by VA published claims data (VBA Annual Benefits Report) and the VA rating schedule — not official VA statistics.

Secondary Conditions

Conditions commonly linked to Loss of Use of Both Hands. Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.

• Depression

  Loss of independence

• Shoulder Tendonitis

  Overcompensation

Common questions about Loss of Use of Both Hands

Is Loss of Use of Both Hands a VA-rated disability?

Yes. The VA rates Loss of Use of Both Hands under VASRD diagnostic code 5109 (Neurological / Musculoskeletal). Both hands have lost all effective function. In 38 CFR 4.71a this is DC 5109, "Loss of use of both hands" — one row in the combinations-of-disabilities table, paying a single evaluation of 100 percent. It is…

What VA disability rating can I get for Loss of Use of Both Hands?

Possible VA ratings for Loss of Use of Both Hands are 100%. Examples: 100%: Neither hand has any effective function left. DC 5109 publishes one evaluation only — 100 percent..

What's the typical VA rating awarded for Loss of Use of Both Hands?

Vetrify estimates the typical rating awarded for Loss of Use of Both Hands at around 100%, based on VA claims data and the rating schedule. An estimated 85 veterans are service-connected for Loss of Use of Both Hands. Estimated approval outlook: Very High (~95%) if documented by specialist.

What evidence helps prove Loss of Use of Both Hands for VA disability?

Strong evidence for a Loss of Use of Both Hands claim includes: Occupational therapy evaluations.; Neurologist or orthopedic reports confirming the extent of the loss..

What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Loss of Use of Both Hands?

Common pitfalls when filing for Loss of Use of Both Hands: Not distinguishing this claim from an amputation-based claim.; Lack of supporting functional tests for both hands..

What conditions are commonly secondary to Loss of Use of Both Hands?

Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Loss of Use of Both Hands include: Depression, Shoulder Tendonitis. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Official sources

1. 38 CFR § 4.71a — Schedule of ratings — musculoskeletal system (Diagnostic Code 5109)

Rating criteria on this page are an educational summary of the cited regulation — the eCFR text is authoritative. See how Vetrify derives its numbers.