Toes, three or four, amputation of, without metatarsal involvement — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 5173)

The VA rates Toes, three or four, amputation of, without metatarsal involvement under Diagnostic Code 5173 at the following tiers: 10%, 20%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Not including great toe. The maximum 20% rating requires: Including great toe.

Diagnostic Code 5173 is the VA rating identifier for Toes, three or four, amputation of, without metatarsal involvement 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 Toes, three or four, amputation of, without metatarsal involvement under DC 5173 is 20%. This tier requires: Including great toe. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Toes, three or four, amputation of, without metatarsal involvement alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Toes, three or four, amputation of, without metatarsal involvement is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5173. 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 Toes, three or four, amputation of, without metatarsal involvement 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 Toes, three or four, amputation of, without metatarsal involvement 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.