VASRD 5321 · Musculoskeletal System
Muscle Group XXI - Respiratory muscles at 20% VA Disability Rating
Moderate, chronic respiratory effort
20%: single veteran, no dependents
$356.66
$4,279.92/year · tax-free · effective December 1, 2025
20% Pay by Household (2026)
Monthly compensation amounts for Muscle Group XXI - Respiratory muscles 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 XXI - Respiratory muscles
$180.42 /mo single
Higher tier
40% Muscle Group XXI - Respiratory muscles
$795.84 /mo single
Common questions about 20% for Muscle Group XXI - Respiratory muscles
- How much does a 20% VA rating for Muscle Group XXI - Respiratory muscles pay?
- A single veteran rated 20% for Muscle Group XXI - Respiratory muscles 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 XXI - Respiratory muscles?
- Moderate, chronic respiratory effort
- What's the difference between 20% and 40% for Muscle Group XXI - Respiratory muscles?
- 20%: Moderate, chronic respiratory effort 40%: Severe respiratory compromise requiring intervention
- Can a secondary condition raise my rating above 20%?
- Yes. If a condition like Shortness of breath is service-connected as secondary to Muscle Group XXI - Respiratory muscles, 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.
See all rating tiers and evidence guidance
Full VASRD criteria, best evidence, exam pitfalls, and secondary conditions for Muscle Group XXI - Respiratory muscles are on the main condition page.
View full Muscle Group XXI - Respiratory muscles guide