VASRD 5243 · Musculoskeletal System

Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS) at 30% VA Disability Rating

The neck bends forward only 15 degrees or less, or the whole neck is fused in a neutral position. This level is reached only through the range-of-motion formula, not through incapacitating episodes.

30%: single veteran, no dependents

$552.47

$6,629.64/year · tax-free · effective December 1, 2025

VA Rating Criteria for 30%

Under the General Rating Formula: forward flexion of the cervical spine 15 degrees or less; or favorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine.

30% Pay by Household (2026)

Monthly compensation amounts for Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS) rated at 30%. Dependent additions apply at 30% and above.

Single (no dependents)$552.47
With spouse$617.47
With spouse + 1 child$666.47
With spouse + 2 children$698.47
Single + 1 child (no spouse)$596.47

Lower tier

20% Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS)

$356.66 /mo single

Higher tier

40% Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS)

$795.84 /mo single

Common questions about 30% for Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS)

How much does a 30% VA rating for Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS) pay?
A single veteran rated 30% for Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS) receives $552.47 per month ($6,629.64/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 $666.47.
What does it take to get a 30% rating for Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS)?
Under the General Rating Formula: forward flexion of the cervical spine 15 degrees or less; or favorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine.
What's the difference between 30% and 40% for Intervertebral Disc Syndrome (IVDS)?
30%: The neck bends forward only 15 degrees or less, or the whole neck is fused in a neutral position. This level is reached only through the range-of-motion formula, not through incapacitating episodes. 40%: Range-of-motion route: the whole neck is fused rigid in a poor position, the lower back bends forward only 30…
Can a secondary condition raise my rating above 30%?
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 30% alone.

Official sources

  1. 38 CFR § 4.71a — Schedule of ratings — musculoskeletal system (Diagnostic Code 5243)
  2. 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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