VASRD 5243 · Musculoskeletal System
Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS) at 100% VA Disability Rating
The entire spine — neck and back together — is fused rigid in a poor position. This level is reached only through the range-of-motion formula, not through incapacitating episodes.
100%: single veteran, no dependents
$3,938.58
$47,262.96/year · tax-free · effective December 1, 2025
VA Rating Criteria for 100%
Under the General Rating Formula: unfavorable ankylosis of the entire spine.
100% Pay by Household (2026)
Monthly compensation amounts for Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS) 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
60% Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS)
$1,435.02 /mo single
Common questions about 100% for Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS)
- How much does a 100% VA rating for Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS) pay?
- A single veteran rated 100% for Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS) 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 Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS)?
- Under the General Rating Formula: 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 Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS), 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 5243)
- 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 Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS) are on the main condition page.
View full Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS) guide
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