VASRD 5238 · Musculoskeletal System – Spine
Spinal Stenosis at 10% VA Disability Rating
Mild narrowing of spine causing back pain with limited bending.
10%: single veteran, no dependents
$180.42
$2,165.04/year · tax-free · effective December 1, 2025
VA Rating Criteria for 10%
Flexion greater than 60 degrees but less than 85, or muscle spasm or guarding not affecting gait.
10% Pay by Household (2026)
Monthly compensation amounts for Spinal Stenosis rated at 10%. Dependent additions apply at 30% and above.
| Single (no dependents) | $180.42 |
| With spouse | $180.42 |
| With spouse + 1 child | $180.42 |
| With spouse + 2 children | $180.42 |
| Single + 1 child (no spouse) | $180.42 |
Higher tier
20% Spinal Stenosis
$356.66 /mo single
Common questions about 10% for Spinal Stenosis
- How much does a 10% VA rating for Spinal Stenosis pay?
- A single veteran rated 10% for Spinal Stenosis receives $180.42 per month ($2,165.04/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 $180.42.
- What does it take to get a 10% rating for Spinal Stenosis?
- Flexion greater than 60 degrees but less than 85, or muscle spasm or guarding not affecting gait.
- What's the difference between 10% and 20% for Spinal Stenosis?
- 10%: Mild narrowing of spine causing back pain with limited bending. 20%: Moderate stiffness in spine making it hard to bend or twist.
- Can a secondary condition raise my rating above 10%?
- Yes. If a condition like Radiculopathy is service-connected as secondary to Spinal Stenosis, the VA combines both ratings using the official combined-ratings formula (38 CFR 4.25), which can produce a combined rating higher than 10% alone.
See all rating tiers and evidence guidance
Full VASRD criteria, best evidence, exam pitfalls, and secondary conditions for Spinal Stenosis are on the main condition page.
View full Spinal Stenosis guide