VA Disability Rating for Hallux Valgus (Bunion)
10% maximum under DC 5280 — for severe (equivalent to amputation of great toe) or operated cases.
Hallux valgus (DC 5280) is rated 10% if severe — defined as "equivalent to amputation of the great toe" — OR if operated upon with resection of the metatarsal head. Mild to moderate bunions are non-compensable (0%). For higher ratings, file under DC 5284 (foot injuries, other).
Rating tiers + 2026 monthly compensation
| Rating | Monthly (2026, single vet) | Criteria (summary) |
|---|---|---|
| 0% | — | Mild to moderate bunion deformity. |
| 10% | $180.42 | Operated with resection of metatarsal head, OR severe (equivalent to amputation of great toe). |
Dollar amounts reflect the 2.5% COLA effective 2025-12-01 for single veterans with no dependents. Add spouse + children for 30%+ ratings via the estimator.
What this means in dollars
- →At 10%: $180.42/mo · $2,165/year, tax-free
How to get rated for hallux valgus (bunion)
- Foot X-ray + podiatry exam.
- Surgical history (bunionectomy) automatically qualifies for 10%.
- Document gait impact, footwear restriction, ulceration risk.
- Combine with plantar fasciitis or pes planus if also present — separately ratable foot conditions stack.
Common secondary conditions
- +Plantar fasciitis
- +Pes planus
- +Knee strain (altered gait)
File these separately. VA rates each service-connected condition independently and combines them via § 4.25.
Nexus tips
- Service-connection often runs through ill-fitting boots, road marches, and prolonged weight-bearing.
- In-service foot pain entries in STRs anchor the nexus even without a specific bunion diagnosis at the time.
Frequently asked
My bunion is painful but not operated. Can I get more than 0%?
Under 5280, no — non-operated, non-severe bunions are 0%. But if you have painful motion of the great toe joint or altered gait causing other foot pain, claim the related foot conditions (plantar fasciitis, pes planus) separately.
Ready to act on this?
Get a full rating estimate across your conditions, or draft the nexus letter your doctor needs to sign.
Related conditions
This page summarizes public rating criteria from 38 CFR Part 4. It is not legal or medical advice. Actual VA ratings depend on C&P exam findings, records review, and rater discretion.