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Home / VA Ratings A–Z / Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

VA Rating for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

DC 8515 Max schedular: 70% Category: Neurological Updated for 2026 rates
The Official Criteria

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Rating Chart

Criteria from 38 CFR Part 4 (DC 8515). Pay shown is the 2026 monthly rate for a veteran alone at that percentage by itself.

RatingWhat qualifies2026 monthly pay*
70%Complete paralysis of the median nerve — dominant hand (60% non-dominant): inclined hand, incomplete flexion of index/middle fingers, thumb atrophy.$1,808.45
50%Severe incomplete paralysis — dominant (40% non-dominant).$1,132.90
30%Moderate incomplete paralysis — dominant (20% non-dominant).$552.47
10%Mild incomplete paralysis — either hand.$180.42

*Rate for that single rating with no dependents. Your combined rating and household may differ — run your exact numbers in our calculator.

How the VA Rates Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel is a median nerve rating with dominant/non-dominant tiers. Positive nerve conduction studies plus weakness or thenar atrophy move you up the scale; sensory-only findings generally rate mild to moderate. Both hands affected triggers the bilateral factor.

Evidence That Wins This Claim

  • Get the NCS/EMG on record.
  • Describe dropping objects and grip failure — functional loss evidence.
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