TDIU Eligibility Checker
Individual Unemployability pays at the 100% rate ($3,938.58/mo in 2026) — even if your combined rating is lower. See if you qualify in 30 seconds.
What is TDIU?
Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) lets the VA pay you at the 100% rate ($3,938.58/mo in 2026) even when your combined rating is below 100%, IF you cannot maintain substantially gainful employment due to service-connected disabilities.
There are two paths:
- Schedular TDIU — meets the rating thresholds (one at 60%+ OR combined 70%+ with one at 40%+).
- Extraschedular TDIU — for vets who don't meet the rating thresholds but still can't work. Requires VA referral.
Common questions
What's "substantially gainful employment"?
Roughly: full-time work above the federal poverty line (about $14,580/yr for one person in 2024). Marginal or "sheltered" employment doesn't count — you can still qualify.
Can I get back pay for TDIU?
Yes. If approved, TDIU is retroactive to your effective date. Use our Back Pay Calculator at the 100% rate.
Does TDIU lead to P&T?
It can. If the VA grants TDIU and finds your conditions are permanent (won't improve), you can be granted Permanent & Total status. Use our P&T checker.
Related tools
VA Disability Calculator
See your monthly pay at any rating including 100%/TDIU.
CalculateSMC Calculator
Special Monthly Compensation can stack with TDIU.
CalculateP&T Eligibility
TDIU often leads to Permanent & Total status.
CheckBack Pay Calculator
If TDIU approved, back pay applies at the 100% rate.
Calculate