VASRD 5321 · Musculoskeletal System
Muscle Group XXI - Respiratory muscles at 40% VA Disability Rating
Severe respiratory compromise requiring intervention
40%: single veteran, no dependents
$795.84
$9,550.08/year · tax-free · effective December 1, 2025
40% Pay by Household (2026)
Monthly compensation amounts for Muscle Group XXI - Respiratory muscles 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
20% Muscle Group XXI - Respiratory muscles
$356.66 /mo single
Common questions about 40% for Muscle Group XXI - Respiratory muscles
- How much does a 40% VA rating for Muscle Group XXI - Respiratory muscles pay?
- A single veteran rated 40% for Muscle Group XXI - Respiratory muscles 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 Muscle Group XXI - Respiratory muscles?
- Severe respiratory compromise requiring intervention
- Can a secondary condition raise my rating above 40%?
- 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 40% 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