VASRD 5242 · Musculoskeletal System
Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine at 100% VA Disability Rating
The entire spine — neck and back together — is fused rigid in a poor position, meeting VA's definition of unfavorable ankylosis.
100%: single veteran, no dependents
$3,938.58
$47,262.96/year · tax-free · effective December 1, 2025
VA Rating Criteria for 100%
Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine.
100% Pay by Household (2026)
Monthly compensation amounts for Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine rated at 100%. Dependent additions apply at 30% and above.
| Single (no dependents) | $3,938.58 |
| With spouse | $4,158.17 |
| With spouse + 1 child | $4,318.99 |
| With spouse + 2 children | $4,428.10 |
| Single + 1 child (no spouse) | $4,085.43 |
Lower tier
50% Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine
$1,132.90 /mo single
Common questions about 100% for Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine
- How much does a 100% VA rating for Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine pay?
- A single veteran rated 100% for Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine receives $3,938.58 per month ($47,262.96/year) under the 2026 VA rates, effective December 1, 2025. VA disability compensation is tax-free. With a spouse and one child, the monthly amount is $4,318.99.
- What does it take to get a 100% rating for Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine?
- Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine.
- Can a secondary condition raise my rating above 100%?
- Yes. If a condition like Radiculopathy is service-connected as secondary to Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine, the VA combines both ratings using the official combined-ratings formula (38 CFR 4.25), which can produce a combined rating higher than 100% alone.
Official sources
- 38 CFR § 4.71a — Schedule of ratings — musculoskeletal system (Diagnostic Code 5242)
- VA.gov — 2026 veteran disability compensation rates, effective December 1, 2025
Pay amounts on this page were last checked against VA.gov on August 16, 2026.
See all rating tiers and evidence guidance
Full VASRD criteria, best evidence, exam pitfalls, and secondary conditions for Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine are on the main condition page.
View full Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine guide
VA Calc: Disability Pay
Combine your ratings & see monthly pay on your iPhone · Works offline