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    VA BenefitsTotal Disability Based on Individual Unemployability

    TDIU

    A VA benefit that allows a veteran to be compensated at the 100% disability rate even if their combined disability rating is less than 100%, when their service-connected disabilities prevent them from securing and maintaining substantially gainful employment.

    Eligibility: typically one disability rated at 60%+ OR two disabilities combined to 70%+ (with one at 40%+). Extraschedular TDIU is available for veterans who don't meet the percentage thresholds but are still unemployable.

    Receiving TDIU does not change your actual disability percentage — it changes your payment level. Employment income above SGA can result in loss of TDIU.

    → TDIU is one of the most significant VA benefits available to veterans with multiple disabilities.

    Also known as

    Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability

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    Frequently asked questions about TDIU

    What is Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU)?+

    A VA benefit that allows a veteran to be compensated at the 100% disability rate even if their combined disability rating is less than 100%, when their service-connected disabilities prevent them from securing and maintaining substantially gainful employment. Eligibility: typically one disability rated at 60%+ OR two disabilities combined to 70%+ (with one at 40%+).

    Who qualifies for TDIU?+

    Extraschedular TDIU is available for veterans who don't meet the percentage thresholds but are still unemployable.

    How do I apply for TDIU?+

    Apply at va.gov (search for the program by name) or work with a free accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) through your state VA office.

    Where can I get help?+

    Use BenefitKarma's free Benefit Eligibility Screener to see what VA benefits you may have missed, or talk with a free accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) through your state VA office.

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