The Veteran's claims for service connection and increased evaluations were denied. The Board found that the evidence did not meet the criteria for a compensable evaluation for his scars, and his residuals of a right little finger fracture do not warrant an increase in evaluation.
The deciding factor: The Veteran’s scars are not shown to be at least 144 square inches in area, which is required for a compensable evaluation under Diagnostic Code 7802. His fractures do not meet the criteria for unfavorable or favorable ankylosis of the ring or little finger.
- Claimed conditions
- scar on right little finger, scar on right forearm, residuals of a right little finger fracture
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- May 21, 2020
- Citation
- 20035549
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 20035549.
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 Veteran's service-connected scars of the chest, bilateral legs, and right forearm are being remanded for further evaluation due to conflicting information regarding their severity.
- Dismissed
The Veteran's appeal for an increased rating of his right little finger fracture was dismissed as he limited the scope of his appeal to other issues.
- Denied
The Board found that the Veteran's character of discharge from service for the period prior to February 2, 1991 was not a bar to VA benefits. However, his subsequent service during and after this period is considered dishonorable, thus barring him from receiving VA compensation benefits for any diseases or injuries incurred or aggravated during these periods.
- Denied
The Veteran's appeal for increased ratings for residuals of a right little finger fracture and bilateral hearing loss disability was denied. The Board found that the current ratings were adequate as they considered the severity and symptomatology of the disabilities.
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.