VASRD 5228 · Musculoskeletal System
Thumb, Limitation of Motion at 20% VA Disability Rating
When you try to touch your fingers with your thumb, more than two inches of gap is left.
20%: single veteran, no dependents
$356.66
$4,279.92/year · tax-free · effective December 1, 2025
VA Rating Criteria for 20%
A gap of more than two inches (5.1 cm) between the thumb pad and the fingers, with the thumb attempting to oppose the fingers. Rated the same on either hand.
20% Pay by Household (2026)
Monthly compensation amounts for Thumb, Limitation of Motion rated at 20%. Dependent additions apply at 30% and above.
| Single (no dependents) | $356.66 |
| With spouse | $356.66 |
| With spouse + 1 child | $356.66 |
| With spouse + 2 children | $356.66 |
| Single + 1 child (no spouse) | $356.66 |
Lower tier
10% Thumb, Limitation of Motion
$180.42 /mo single
Common questions about 20% for Thumb, Limitation of Motion
- How much does a 20% VA rating for Thumb, Limitation of Motion pay?
- A single veteran rated 20% for Thumb, Limitation of Motion receives $356.66 per month ($4,279.92/year) under the 2026 VA rates, effective December 1, 2025. VA disability compensation is tax-free. With a spouse and one child, the monthly amount is $356.66.
- What does it take to get a 20% rating for Thumb, Limitation of Motion?
- A gap of more than two inches (5.1 cm) between the thumb pad and the fingers, with the thumb attempting to oppose the fingers. Rated the same on either hand.
- Can a secondary condition raise my rating above 20%?
- Yes. If a condition like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is service-connected as secondary to Thumb, Limitation of Motion, the VA combines both ratings using the official combined-ratings formula (38 CFR 4.25), which can produce a combined rating higher than 20% alone.
Official sources
- 38 CFR § 4.71a — Schedule of ratings — musculoskeletal system (Diagnostic Code 5228)
- VA.gov — 2026 veteran disability compensation rates, effective December 1, 2025
Pay amounts on this page were last checked against VA.gov on August 16, 2026.
See all rating tiers and evidence guidance
Full VASRD criteria, best evidence, exam pitfalls, and secondary conditions for Thumb, Limitation of Motion are on the main condition page.
View full Thumb, Limitation of Motion guide
VA Calc: Disability Pay
Combine your ratings & see monthly pay on your iPhone · Works offline