The Veteran's claim for a higher rating for his service-connected right index and middle finger disability has been denied by the Board of Veterans' Appeals. The evidence does not support an increase in the disability rating beyond 20 percent.
The deciding factor: The evidence did not demonstrate unfavorable or favorable ankyloses of both fingers, nor was there any other basis for a higher rating under applicable VA regulations and diagnostic codes.
- Claimed conditions
- right index finger, right middle finger
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- March 15, 2018
- Citation
- 1815688
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 1815688.
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.
- Dismissed
The Veteran requested to withdraw her appeal regarding the earlier effective date for service connection for rheumatoid arthritis affecting various fingers and wrists. The Board dismissed the appeals as per the Veteran's request.
- Denied
The Veteran's service-connected gunshot wounds and PTSD did not cause or contribute to his death from cardiovascular conditions. The Board denied the claim for service connection for the cause of death.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remanded the claims for service connection and increased ratings, as new evidence has been received since previous denials.
- Dismissed
The Veteran withdrew the appeals for service connection of right pinky finger, right ring finger, and right middle finger.
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