VA Disability Rating for Hammertoe
0% for single toe; 10% for hammertoe of all toes of one foot, without claw foot.
Hammertoe (DC 5282) caps at 10%, requiring all toes of one foot to be affected (without claw foot). Single-toe hammertoe is non-compensable. For severe foot deformities affecting function, consider DC 5284 (foot injuries, other) which goes higher.
Rating tiers + 2026 monthly compensation
| Rating | Monthly (2026, single vet) | Criteria (summary) |
|---|---|---|
| 0% | — | Single toe hammertoe. |
| 10% | $180.42 | Hammertoe of all toes, unilateral, without claw foot. |
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 hammertoe
- Podiatry exam + photos / X-ray documenting all-toe involvement.
- Functional impact statement: footwear difficulty, ulcer risk, gait change.
Common secondary conditions
- +Plantar fasciitis
- +Bunion (hallux valgus)
- +Knee strain
File these separately. VA rates each service-connected condition independently and combines them via § 4.25.
Nexus tips
- In-service ill-fitting footwear and prolonged marches are a recognized etiology.
- Combine with related foot conditions for a meaningful combined rating.
Frequently asked
My hammertoe is severe but it is only one toe. Can I get more than 0%?
Not under 5282. Consider 5284 (foot injuries, other) if functional impact is significant — moderate (10%), moderately severe (20%), severe (30%).
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.