VASRD 5306 · Musculoskeletal

Muscle Group VI (Elbow Extensors) at 20% VA Disability Rating

Moderately severe damage to the triceps of your non-dominant arm.

20%: single veteran, no dependents

$356.66

$4,279.92/year · tax-free · effective December 1, 2025

VA Rating Criteria for 20%

Moderately severe disability of Muscle Group VI in the non-dominant (minor) upper extremity.

20% Pay by Household (2026)

Monthly compensation amounts for Muscle Group VI (Elbow Extensors) rated at 20%. Dependent additions apply at 30% and above.

Single (no dependents)$356.66
With spouse$356.66
With spouse + 1 child$356.66
With spouse + 2 children$356.66
Single + 1 child (no spouse)$356.66

Lower tier

10% Muscle Group VI (Elbow Extensors)

$180.42 /mo single

Higher tier

30% Muscle Group VI (Elbow Extensors)

$552.47 /mo single

Common questions about 20% for Muscle Group VI (Elbow Extensors)

How much does a 20% VA rating for Muscle Group VI (Elbow Extensors) pay?
A single veteran rated 20% for Muscle Group VI (Elbow Extensors) receives $356.66 per month ($4,279.92/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 $356.66.
What does it take to get a 20% rating for Muscle Group VI (Elbow Extensors)?
Moderately severe disability of Muscle Group VI in the non-dominant (minor) upper extremity.
What's the difference between 20% and 30% for Muscle Group VI (Elbow Extensors)?
20%: Moderately severe damage to the triceps of your non-dominant arm. 30%: Severe damage on your non-dominant side, or moderately severe damage on your dominant side.
Can a secondary condition raise my rating above 20%?
Yes. If a condition like Tendonitis is service-connected as secondary to Muscle Group VI (Elbow Extensors), the VA combines both ratings using the official combined-ratings formula (38 CFR 4.25), which can produce a combined rating higher than 20% alone.

Official sources

  1. 38 CFR § 4.73 — Schedule of ratings — muscle injuries (Diagnostic Code 5306)
  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 Muscle Group VI (Elbow Extensors) are on the main condition page.

View full Muscle Group VI (Elbow Extensors) guide
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