Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine at 100% VA Disability Rating

Data last updated September 23, 2026

The entire spine — neck and back together — is fused rigid in a poor position, meeting VA's definition of unfavorable ankylosis.

100% combined rating: single veteran, no dependents

$3,938.58

$47,262.96/year · tax-free · effective December 1, 2025

VA pays on the combined rating, not per condition: this is the amount when 100% is the veteran's combined rating, after all separate ratings are combined under 38 CFR 4.25.

The full 100% pay chart, with dependents Combine this rating with others

VA Rating Criteria for 100%

Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine.

100% Pay by Household (2026)

Monthly compensation at a 100% combined rating. 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?

VA pays on the combined rating, not per condition: this is the amount when 100% is the veteran's combined rating, after all separate ratings are combined under 38 CFR 4.25. At a 100% combined rating, a single veteran 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.

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 September 22, 2026.

How these figures are checked: our methodology and the open dataset.

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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