VASRD 5238 · Musculoskeletal System – Spine

Spinal Stenosis at 30% VA Disability Rating

The neck bends forward only 15 degrees or less, or the whole neck is fused in a neutral position.

30%: single veteran, no dependents

$552.47

$6,629.64/year · tax-free · effective December 1, 2025

VA Rating Criteria for 30%

Forward flexion of the cervical spine 15 degrees or less; or favorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine.

30% Pay by Household (2026)

Monthly compensation amounts for Spinal Stenosis rated at 30%. Dependent additions apply at 30% and above.

Single (no dependents)$552.47
With spouse$617.47
With spouse + 1 child$666.47
With spouse + 2 children$698.47
Single + 1 child (no spouse)$596.47

Lower tier

20% Spinal Stenosis

$356.66 /mo single

Higher tier

40% Spinal Stenosis

$795.84 /mo single

Common questions about 30% for Spinal Stenosis

How much does a 30% VA rating for Spinal Stenosis pay?
A single veteran rated 30% for Spinal Stenosis receives $552.47 per month ($6,629.64/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 $666.47.
What does it take to get a 30% rating for Spinal Stenosis?
Forward flexion of the cervical spine 15 degrees or less; or favorable ankylosis of the entire cervical spine.
What's the difference between 30% and 40% for Spinal Stenosis?
30%: The neck bends forward only 15 degrees or less, or the whole neck is fused in a neutral position. 40%: The whole neck is fused rigid in a poor position, the lower back bends forward only 30 degrees or less, or the whole mid and lower back is fused in a neutral position.
Can a secondary condition raise my rating above 30%?
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 30% alone.

Official sources

  1. 38 CFR § 4.71a — Schedule of ratings — musculoskeletal system (Diagnostic Code 5238)
  2. VA.gov — 2026 veteran disability compensation rates, effective December 1, 2025

Pay amounts on this page were last checked against VA.gov on August 16, 2026.

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
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