Can't work due to service-connected conditions?


Explore VA Unemployability (TDIU) As A Path To 100% Disability

Struggling to Reach 100%? There’s Another Way

For many veterans, reaching a 100% VA disability rating feels out of reach—especially with the VA’s complex formulas and strict criteria. But there’s another option that provides the same monthly compensation: Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU).
Here’s a quick breakdown of the two main ways veterans may qualify for 100% VA disability benefits
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1. Qualifying Through Service-Connected Disabilities

If your disability ratings add up to 100% under the VA’s schedule, you may qualify for full monthly compensation. But reaching that combined rating can be difficult—especially when the VA’s math makes it harder to stack multiple conditions together.
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2. Qualifying Through Unemployability (TDIU)

If your service-connected conditions prevent you from holding steady, gainful employment, you may qualify for TDIU—even if your VA rating is below 100%. This benefit pays the same as a full 100% rating.


TDIU is meant for veterans whose disabilities limit their ability to work, not just those with high combined ratings.

Determining Your Eligibility for Individual Unemployability (TDIU)

You may qualify for TDIU if your service-connected disabilities make it difficult to secure and keep a job that pays above the federal poverty level.

The VA looks at whether your conditions limit your ability to maintain substantially gainful employment—meaning stable, ongoing work that provides a livable income. They’ll consider things like:

  • Can you find and keep a job that pays above the poverty threshold?
  • If you’re working, are you able to keep up with the demands of the job, or do your conditions make it too difficult?

If your disabilities prevent you from staying employed—or if any job you can hold pays below the poverty level—you may qualify for TDIU.

At Chambers Law Firm, we help veterans build strong, well-documented claims that clearly show how their conditions affect their ability to work. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, we’ll walk you through it.

Contact us today to get the guidance and support you deserve.