What is VA Individual Unemployability (TDIU) and how do I qualify?
My disabilities make it impossible for me to keep a steady job, but I'm only rated at 70%. Can I get paid at the 100% rate even if I don't have a 100% rating? How does TDIU work?
1 Answer
Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) is a benefit that allows the VA to pay you at the 100% disability rate, even if your combined rating is lower, because your service-connected conditions prevent you from maintaining "substantially gainful employment." Standard Requirements: 1. You have one service-connected disability rated at least 60%, OR 2. You have two or more disabilities with at least one at 40% and a combined rating of 70% or higher. Even if you don't meet these percentages, you can still apply for "extraschedular" TDIU if you can prove your disabilities uniquely interfere with your ability to work. You will need to provide employment history and medical evidence showing exactly how your symptoms (like social impairment, physical limitations, or frequent hospitalizations) make it impossible to hold a job.