The Board denied the veteran's claim for a compensable initial rating for residuals of his left index finger fracture, finding that there was no demonstrable limitation of function and thus no basis for a higher evaluation.
The deciding factor: The VA examination showed no demonstrable functional impairment or limitation of function in the left index finger, leading to a determination that a compensable rating is not warranted.
- Claimed conditions
- left index finger fracture
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- January 28, 2002
- Citation
- 0200962
This is a plain-language summary generated by AI from a public Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision. It can contain errors — always verify against the original. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation 0200962.
What this means for you
A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities result in the need for regular aid and attendance, warranting special monthly compensation.
- Granted
The Veteran is granted special monthly compensation (SMC) based on the need for aid and attendance due to his service-connected PTSD. The issue of SMC based on housebound status is dismissed as moot.
- Denied
The Board denied an earlier effective date for service connection for tinnitus, finding no claim was submitted prior to November 21, 2015. The Veteran's motion alleging clear and unmistakable error (CUE) in the decision was denied.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claims for increased ratings and other issues are being remanded due to the need for additional development, including VA examinations.
Free starter guide for your own claim
Reading this because you were denied or under-rated? Get the plain-English next steps — your appeal options, the deadline that protects you, and how appeals like yours turn out. One email, no spam.
We will only use this to send the guide. No spam, unsubscribe any time. We never sell your information.
We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.
This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.