VASRD 5242 · Musculoskeletal System
Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine at 50% VA Disability Rating
Back totally fused in bad position
50%: single veteran, no dependents
$1,132.90
$13,594.80/year · tax-free · effective December 1, 2025
VA Rating Criteria for 50%
Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine
50% Pay by Household (2026)
Monthly compensation amounts for Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine rated at 50%. Dependent additions apply at 30% and above.
| Single (no dependents) | $1,132.90 |
| With spouse | $1,241.90 |
| With spouse + 1 child | $1,322.90 |
| With spouse + 2 children | $1,376.90 |
| Single + 1 child (no spouse) | $1,205.90 |
Lower tier
40% Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine
$795.84 /mo single
Common questions about 50% for Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine
- How much does a 50% VA rating for Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine pay?
- A single veteran rated 50% for Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine receives $1,132.90 per month ($13,594.80/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 $1,322.90.
- What does it take to get a 50% rating for Degenerative Arthritis of the Spine?
- Unfavorable ankylosis of the entire thoracolumbar spine
- Can a secondary condition raise my rating above 50%?
- 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 50% alone.
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