11 Things All Veterans should Know about TDIU

When a veteran is considered disabled in more than one area, the government uses a rating system to determine their combined disability rating. This combined rating is called a total disability rating based on individual unemployability, or TDIU. Many veterans are left with questions as to how this combined rating has been assigned to them, and what the percentage means.

What are TDIU benefits?

TDIU benefits are when the VA sends a monthly payment to a veteran whose service-related disability keeps them from obtaining or maintaining employment.

How does someone get TDIU benefits?

In order to apply for TDIU benefits, an individual must fill out and submit Form-21-8940.

Who is eligible to receive TDIU benefits?

If a single disability is rated at 60 percent or more, or two disabilities rate more than 70 percent (with one of those disabilities rated at least 40 percent), then an individual may be eligible to receive TDIU benefits.

Can someone receive benefits if they don’t meet the percentage requirement?

It is possible for individuals to receive benefits if they don’t meet the percentage requirement. Under what is called extraschedular TDIU, veterans can appeal the decision. They must provide evidence that they are unemployable and fight their case- it is very difficult to obtain have an original decision overturned.

What is meant by “gainful employment”?

The VA uses the term gainful employment to refer to employment veterans cannot obtain in order to receive TDIU benefits. Although there is no official definition, it is widely agreed that if the veteran’s earnings are above the poverty threshold for one person, they are considered “gainfully employed”. If the veteran did not earn more than that threshold, they are not considered “gainfully employed” and could be eligible for benefits.

Can reservists or part-time military qualify for benefits?

If a member of the National Guard or Armed Forces Reserves was in active duty during their service, and their disability is service-related, they can qualify for benefits if they meet the appropriate guidelines.

What does TDIU pay?

TDIU pays the same rate as a VA disability benefit at 100 percent. If a veteran has dependent children or parents, their rate will increase. Currently, the rate for 100 percent VA disability is $2,906.83.

What happens if a TDIU application has been denied?

If an application for TDIU has been denied, the veteran has one year to file paperwork countering the denial.

What if I disagree with the rating I received?

If you believe your rating is too low, you can appeal it just like a denial of claims is appealed.

Can I apply if I have been out of the service for some time?

Veterans who have been out of the service and did not receive a dishonorable discharge are eligible to apply for TDIU.

Can veterans collect both Social Security and TDIU benefits?

It is legal for veterans to collect both Social Security and TDIU benefits without a financial offset.