Hammer toe — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 5282)

The VA rates Hammer toe under Diagnostic Code 5282 at the following tiers: 0%, 10%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Single toes. The maximum 10% rating requires: All toes, unilateral without claw foot.

Diagnostic Code 5282 is the VA rating identifier for Hammer toe within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.

The highest schedular rating for Hammer toe under DC 5282 is 10%. This tier requires: All toes, unilateral without claw foot. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Hammer toe alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Hammer toe is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5282. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Hammer toe may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

Service connection for Hammer toe requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.