The Math vs. The Reality
Sometimes, VA math doesn’t reflect reality. You might be rated at 70% or 80%, but your conditions make it impossible to keep a steady job.
This is where Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) comes in.
What is TDIU?
TDIU allows the VA to pay you at the 100% rate because your disabilities prevent “substantially gainful employment.”
- Key Requirement: You generally need one disability rated at 60%, OR a combined rating of 70% (with one at 40%).
- The Evidence: You need to prove that your service-connected conditions (not age or non-service injuries) are what stop you from working.
Is TDIU Permanent?
It can be. And yes, it provides the same medical and dental benefits as a standard 100% rating.
If you are struggling to work, Woobie provides medical evaluations and nexus letters based solely on clinical judgment to document the symptoms, diagnoses, and functional limitations of your service-connected conditions. Our fees are for medical services only and are not contingent on the outcome of a claim. Woobie does not provide assistance with claim preparation, filing, or strategy, ensuring our services comply fully with SB 694.
*This article was reviewed and updated for compliance on February 17, 2026.
*This article was reviewed and updated for compliance on February 17, 2026.