Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) | Complete Guide

How to Get TDIU Benefits

To get TDIU benefits, you need to show the VA that your service-connected disabilities prevent you from holding steady, full-time work. Start by filling out VA Form 21-8940, which is the official application for TDIU. You’ll also need to provide medical records, work history, and a statement from a doctor or former employer explaining how your condition affects your ability to work. Once submitted, the VA will review your case and may schedule an exam before making a decision. 

TDIU Approval Ratings: What to Expect

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) does not publish official annual approval rates for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) claims. However, estimates suggest that approximately 30% of TDIU applications are approved, though this figure can vary based on individual circumstances and the strength of the evidence provided.

Notably, in a recent fiscal year, over 58,000 veterans were granted a 100% disability rating, marking a 20% increase from the previous year. 

While TDIU approval may be more attainable than securing a 100% schedular rating, success hinges on submitting a well-documented claim that clearly demonstrates how service-connected disabilities impede the ability to maintain substantially gainful employment.

What to do if You’re Denied

If your TDIU claim is denied, don’t give up—many veterans are approved after appealing. Start by contacting a VA-accredited attorney who will carefully review the VA’s decision letter to understand why your claim was denied. Then they can determine the best route for securing your benefits. Typically this consists of filing a supplemental claim with new evidence, submitting a higher-level review, or initiating a formal appeal to the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. You have one year from the date of the decision to take action, so it’s important to get started as soon as possible. Taking the time to gather strong medical evidence, work history documentation, or a vocational expert opinion can make a big difference in the appeals process. 

While the appeals process can technically be done by yourself, we always recommend working with a VA-accredited attorney like Wettermark Keith as soon as your claim is denied. This will ensure your appeal is filed correctly with the strongest evidence possible to increase your chances of securing benefits. At Wettermark Keith, we take care of all the research to build the best possible appeal case for your situation. Our team of VA-accredited attorneys have worked on dozens of cases with some of the same variables. This experience helps us find new ways to secure TDIU benefits on your behalf. Whether you just received your first denial, or are fighting for a higher VA disability rating, our team is here to help you secure the benefits you deserve. 

How to Increase Your VA Disability Rating

Over time it’s possible for injuries to worsen and your body to deteriorate. In this event, you can request an increase in your VA disability rating. To do this, you’ll need to file a claim for increased compensation and provide updated medical evidence showing that your condition has become more severe. This could include recent treatment records, doctor’s evaluations, or a statement explaining how your symptoms have intensified and how they affect your daily life. The VA may schedule a new Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam to assess your current condition. If approved, a higher rating could lead to increased monthly benefits and access to additional services.

How Long to Expect for the Process

The timeline for a TDIU claim or any VA disability claim can vary, but on average, you can expect the process to take 4 to 8 months. Factors that affect this timeline include the complexity of your case, how much evidence is needed, and whether the VA requests a Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam. If your claim requires additional documentation or clarification, that can extend the wait. Appeals may take longer, often 12 months or more, depending on the type of appeal and backlog at the VA. Staying organized, submitting thorough evidence up front, and responding promptly to VA requests can help speed things up.

Can you get TDIU and VA disability?

Yes, you can receive both TDIU and VA disability benefits—TDIU is actually a specific type of VA disability compensation. It’s awarded when your service-connected conditions prevent you from maintaining substantially gainful employment, even if your combined disability rating is less than 100 percent. If you're approved for TDIU, the VA pays you at the 100 percent disability rate, regardless of your actual rating. So, rather than replacing your disability benefits, TDIU enhances them by increasing your monthly compensation based on how your conditions affect your ability to work.