The veteran's claim for an increased evaluation and earlier effective date for service connection were both denied. The initial evaluation of 10% for residuals of a left middle finger injury is upheld, as the disability does not meet criteria for a higher rating. An earlier effective date was also denied due to lack of evidence of prior claims.
The deciding factor: The veteran's claim for an increased evaluation and earlier effective date were both denied because his service-connected residuals of a left middle finger injury do not meet the criteria for a higher disability rating, and there is no evidence he filed a claim prior to June 29, 2001.
- Claimed conditions
- residuals of a left middle finger injury
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- December 17, 2003
- Citation
- 0335514
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 0335514.
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.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has determined that a VA examination is needed to determine the current status of the Veteran's left middle finger and whether it is related to his service. The appeal will be remanded for this purpose.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's appeal is being remanded due to her inability to be contacted, and the case will be further reviewed after obtaining updated information.
- Granted
The Board has determined that the veteran's left middle finger injury during service resulted in residuals, and these are considered a direct result of his military service.
- Remanded (sent back)
The veteran is seeking to establish service connection for residuals of a left middle finger injury sustained in service. The Board has determined that further development, including an examination, is necessary before the claim can be decided.
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