TDIU Eligibility Checker
Determine whether you may qualify for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) under 38 C.F.R. § 4.16. Enter your individual VA ratings and employment status to see your eligibility path and potential compensation increase.
Understanding TDIU
Schedular vs Extraschedular
Schedular TDIU under § 4.16(a) has clear rating thresholds: one condition at 60%+ or combined 70%+ with one at 40%+. Extraschedular TDIU under § 4.16(b) has no minimum rating but requires referral to the Director of C&P Service, making it harder to obtain. Both require proof that service-connected conditions prevent substantially gainful employment.
TDIU and Additional Benefits
TDIU veterans may also qualify for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-S) if they have an additional disability rated 60%+ that is separate from the conditions causing unemployability (38 U.S.C. § 1114(s)). If granted P&T status, dependents become eligible for Chapter 35 DEA education benefits.
Evidence That Strengthens a TDIU Claim
Strong TDIU claims include a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your conditions to unemployability, employer statements documenting accommodations or termination, vocational assessments, and a complete employment history showing a pattern of inability to maintain work. Social Security disability determinations (if any) can also support your claim.
Disclaimer: This tool provides a preliminary assessment based on self-reported information and is not a substitute for an official VA determination. Actual TDIU eligibility depends on medical evidence, employment records, and VA adjudication. For assistance with your claim, contact a Veterans Service Organization (VSO), accredited claims agent, or VA-accredited attorney.
Legal References
TDIU (schedular)
38 C.F.R. § 4.16(a)
TDIU (extraschedular)
38 C.F.R. § 4.16(b)
P&T determination
38 C.F.R. § 3.340
SMC (housebound)
38 U.S.C. § 1114(s)
VA math
38 C.F.R. § 4.25
2026 comp rates
VA.gov
Key Forms
TDIU application
VA Form 21-8940
Employment info
VA Form 21-4192
Disability claim
VA Form 21-526EZ