TDIU eligibility — when does it apply?
CAdeepwater1 month ago
Rated 60% but I can't hold a job because of the service-connected injuries. Heard of TDIU. Eligible?
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✓ Verified answer from a licensed attorney — shown first
Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) lets you receive compensation at the 100% rate even if your schedular rating is lower, when you can't maintain 'substantially gainful' employment due to service-connected conditions. Schedular requirements: one SC condition rated 60% or higher, OR two or more with combined 70%+ and at least one rated 40%. You meet the first prong. The other piece is the employment evidence — you'll need to show you can't work. Best evidence: vocational expert report, treating provider's letter on work limitations, employment history showing you can't sustain work due to the SC conditions, denied disability accommodations. Form 21-8940. A solid TDIU claim properly documented is one of the highest-value claims at the VA.
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Please readThis is a community space for sharing personal experience — it is not legal advice, and posts here are not from Lawma or your attorney. We strongly encourage you to post under an anonymous handle, keep questions general, and avoid posting private details of your active case. For advice about your own situation, message your attorney.