VASRD 5114 · Amputations and Functional Loss

Loss of Use of Both Hands VA Disability Rating

Loss of use of both hands means you can no longer perform essential daily functions due to injury or paralysis.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
100%You can't use either hand for basic tasks like writing or gripping.

How the VA Evaluates Loss of Use of Both Hands

Loss of use is determined when no effective function remains other than that which would be equally well served by an amputation stump with prosthesis.

Approval rate

Moderate – dependent on complete documentation of functional loss.

Annual service-connected

120 veterans

Average rating

100%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • •C&P exam documenting loss of function
  • •Occupational therapy assessments
  • •Medical imaging showing irreversible damage

Strategy Tips

  • •Include occupational therapy assessments
  • •Get a Nexus letter if related to service-connected injury

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • •Inconsistent use of hands during exam
  • •Underreporting difficulties with ADLs

Common Filing Mistakes

  • •Submitting without ADL impact documentation
  • •Assuming loss of strength equals loss of use

Onset Patterns

  • •Usually follows trauma, progressive nerve damage, or paralysis

Secondary Conditions

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

  • Depression

    Functional loss impacts mental health

  • Shoulder Strain

    Compensation from prosthetic use

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 5114 (Amputations and Functional Loss). Loss of use of both hands means you can no longer perform essential daily functions due to injury or paralysis.
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% — You can't use either hand for basic tasks like writing or gripping..
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Loss of Use of Both Hands?
The average awarded rating for Loss of Use of Both Hands is 100%. Roughly 120 veterans are service-connected for Loss of Use of Both Hands each year. Typical approval likelihood: Moderate – dependent on complete documentation of functional loss..
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: C&P exam documenting loss of function; Occupational therapy assessments; Medical imaging showing irreversible damage.
What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Loss of Use of Both Hands?
Common pitfalls when filing for Loss of Use of Both Hands: Submitting without ADL impact documentation; Assuming loss of strength equals loss of use.
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 Strain. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

See how Loss of Use of Both Hands combines with your other service-connected conditions using the official VA combined-ratings formula.

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