Rheumatoid Arthritis at 40% VA Disability Rating

Common questions about 40% for Rheumatoid Arthritis

How much does a 40% VA rating for Rheumatoid Arthritis pay?

A single veteran rated 40% for Rheumatoid Arthritis 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 Rheumatoid Arthritis?

"Symptom combinations productive of definite impairment of health objectively supported by examination findings or incapacitating exacerbations occurring 3 or more times a year."

What's the difference between 40% and 60% for Rheumatoid Arthritis?

40%: Definite health impairment on exam, or three or more incapacitating flares a year 60%: Weight loss and anemia, or severe flares at least four times a year

Can a secondary condition raise my rating above 40%?

Yes. If a condition like Fatigue is service-connected as secondary to Rheumatoid Arthritis, 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.