VASRD 5009 · Musculoskeletal / Joints
Other Specified Forms of Arthritis at 20% VA Disability Rating
Flare-ups of joint pain
20%: single veteran, no dependents
$356.66
$4,279.92/year · tax-free · effective December 1, 2025
VA Rating Criteria for 20%
Occasional exacerbations of joint pain and swelling
20% Pay by Household (2026)
Monthly compensation amounts for Other Specified Forms of Arthritis 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 |
Higher tier
60% Other Specified Forms of Arthritis
$1,435.02 /mo single
Common questions about 20% for Other Specified Forms of Arthritis
- How much does a 20% VA rating for Other Specified Forms of Arthritis pay?
- A single veteran rated 20% for Other Specified Forms of Arthritis 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 Other Specified Forms of Arthritis?
- Occasional exacerbations of joint pain and swelling
- What's the difference between 20% and 60% for Other Specified Forms of Arthritis?
- 20%: Flare-ups of joint pain 60%: Moderate impact across body
- Can a secondary condition raise my rating above 20%?
- Yes. If a condition like Fatigue is service-connected as secondary to Other Specified Forms of Arthritis, 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 Other Specified Forms of Arthritis are on the main condition page.
View full Other Specified Forms of Arthritis guide