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VASRD 5261 · Musculoskeletal System – Knee/Leg

Limitation of Extension of the Leg (Knee) at 40% VA Disability Rating

Straightening knee is painful and incomplete.

40%: single veteran, no dependents

$795.84

$9,550.08/year · tax-free · effective December 1, 2025

VA Rating Criteria for 40%

Extension limited to 30 degrees.

40% Pay by Household (2026)

Monthly compensation amounts for Limitation of Extension of the Leg (Knee) rated at 40%. Dependent additions apply at 30% and above.

Single (no dependents)$795.84
With spouse$882.84
With spouse + 1 child$947.84
With spouse + 2 children$990.84
Single + 1 child (no spouse)$853.84

Lower tier

30% Limitation of Extension of the Leg (Knee)

$552.47 /mo single

Higher tier

50% Limitation of Extension of the Leg (Knee)

$1,132.90 /mo single

Common questions about 40% for Limitation of Extension of the Leg (Knee)

How much does a 40% VA rating for Limitation of Extension of the Leg (Knee) pay?
A single veteran rated 40% for Limitation of Extension of the Leg (Knee) receives $795.84 per month ($9,550.08/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 $947.84.
What does it take to get a 40% rating for Limitation of Extension of the Leg (Knee)?
Extension limited to 30 degrees.
What's the difference between 40% and 50% for Limitation of Extension of the Leg (Knee)?
40%: Straightening knee is painful and incomplete. 50%: Leg can’t straighten—very limited mobility.
Can a secondary condition raise my rating above 40%?
Yes. If a condition like Lower Back Pain is service-connected as secondary to Limitation of Extension of the Leg (Knee), the VA combines both ratings using the official combined-ratings formula (38 CFR 4.25), which can produce a combined rating higher than 40% alone.

See all rating tiers and evidence guidance

Full VASRD criteria, best evidence, exam pitfalls, and secondary conditions for Limitation of Extension of the Leg (Knee) are on the main condition page.

View full Limitation of Extension of the Leg (Knee) guide