VASRD 5248 · Musculoskeletal System – Spine
Spine Arthritis (Degenerative Changes) at 20% VA Disability Rating
Spinal arthritis limits movement and may affect your walk.
20%: single veteran, no dependents
$356.66
$4,279.92/year · tax-free · effective December 1, 2025
VA Rating Criteria for 20%
Forward flexion between 30°–60° or combined range of motion under 120°; or muscle spasm affecting gait.
20% Pay by Household (2026)
Monthly compensation amounts for Spine Arthritis (Degenerative Changes) 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 |
Lower tier
10% Spine Arthritis (Degenerative Changes)
$180.42 /mo single
Common questions about 20% for Spine Arthritis (Degenerative Changes)
- How much does a 20% VA rating for Spine Arthritis (Degenerative Changes) pay?
- A single veteran rated 20% for Spine Arthritis (Degenerative Changes) 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 Spine Arthritis (Degenerative Changes)?
- Forward flexion between 30°–60° or combined range of motion under 120°; or muscle spasm affecting gait.
- Can a secondary condition raise my rating above 20%?
- Yes. If a condition like Radiculopathy is service-connected as secondary to Spine Arthritis (Degenerative Changes), 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 Spine Arthritis (Degenerative Changes) are on the main condition page.
View full Spine Arthritis (Degenerative Changes) guide