VASRD 5238 · Musculoskeletal System – Spine
Spinal Stenosis at 50% VA Disability Rating
Bad back fusion with nerve pain or numbness in limbs.
50%: single veteran, no dependents
$1,132.90
$13,594.80/year · tax-free · effective December 1, 2025
VA Rating Criteria for 50%
Unfavorable ankylosis of thoracolumbar spine and frequent neurologic symptoms like radiculopathy.
50% Pay by Household (2026)
Monthly compensation amounts for Spinal Stenosis rated at 50%. Dependent additions apply at 30% and above.
| Single (no dependents) | $1,132.90 |
| With spouse | $1,241.90 |
| With spouse + 1 child | $1,322.90 |
| With spouse + 2 children | $1,376.90 |
| Single + 1 child (no spouse) | $1,205.90 |
Lower tier
20% Spinal Stenosis
$356.66 /mo single
Higher tier
100% Spinal Stenosis
$3,938.58 /mo single
Common questions about 50% for Spinal Stenosis
- How much does a 50% VA rating for Spinal Stenosis pay?
- A single veteran rated 50% for Spinal Stenosis receives $1,132.90 per month ($13,594.80/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 $1,322.90.
- What does it take to get a 50% rating for Spinal Stenosis?
- Unfavorable ankylosis of thoracolumbar spine and frequent neurologic symptoms like radiculopathy.
- What's the difference between 50% and 100% for Spinal Stenosis?
- 50%: Bad back fusion with nerve pain or numbness in limbs. 100%: Severe spine narrowing causing paralysis-like symptoms or immobility.
- Can a secondary condition raise my rating above 50%?
- 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 50% 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