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Veteran Resources

Everything You Need to
Understand Your TDIU Claim

Key VA forms, external resources, and answers to the most common questions veterans have when pursuing Total Disability Individual Unemployability benefits.

Key Forms for TDIU Claims

VA Form

VA Form 21-8940 — Veteran's Application for Increased Compensation Based on Unemployability

The primary form used to apply for TDIU. Submitted directly to the VA to initiate or support your unemployability claim.

View on VA.gov →
VA Form

VA Form 21-4142 — Authorization to Disclose Information

Allows the VA to obtain private medical records on your behalf — important for ensuring all relevant evidence is in your file.

View on VA.gov →
VA Form

VA Form 20-0995 — Decision Review Request: Supplemental Claim

Used to submit new and relevant evidence after a rating decision — including a vocational evaluation — to request a supplemental review.

View on VA.gov →
VA Form

VA Form 10182 — Decision Review Request: Board Appeal

Used to appeal a VA decision to the Board of Veterans' Appeals (BVA). A vocational opinion is often critical at this stage.

View on VA.gov →

Helpful Links for Veterans

VA.gov

VA TDIU Overview

The VA's official explanation of TDIU — eligibility criteria, how to apply, and what to expect.

Visit VA.gov →
Appeals

VA Appeals Modernization Act (AMA) Overview

Understand the three lanes for appealing a VA decision: Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, and Board Appeal.

Learn more →
Legal Help

National Veterans Legal Services Program

Free legal resources and attorney referrals for veterans navigating the VA claims and appeals process.

Visit NVLSP.org →
VSO

Disabled American Veterans (DAV)

Free claims assistance, benefit counseling, and advocacy services for veterans — available nationwide.

Visit DAV.org →

TDIU — Frequently Asked Questions

What is TDIU?
Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) is a VA benefit that allows a veteran to be compensated at the 100% disability rate even if their combined rating is below 100%, provided their service-connected conditions prevent them from maintaining substantially gainful employment.
What are the eligibility requirements for TDIU?
Generally, a veteran must have at least one service-connected condition rated at 60% or higher, or two or more conditions with a combined rating of at least 70% (with at least one rated 40% or higher). Exceptions can apply for veterans who don't meet the rating threshold but can demonstrate unemployability.
What does a vocational evaluation do for my TDIU claim?
A vocational evaluation provides an independent, expert analysis of how your service-connected conditions impact your ability to work. It translates your medical record into occupational language the VA understands — documenting why your limitations prevent you from maintaining substantially gainful employment.
When should I get a vocational evaluation?
A vocational evaluation is most valuable when your TDIU claim has been denied, when you're filing a supplemental claim or appeal, or when the VA's vocational findings don't accurately reflect your actual work limitations.
How long does the evaluation process take?
Most evaluations are completed within 5–7 business days of completing the vocational interview and submitting your records. We confirm exact timelines during the initial case review.
What does it cost?
Our standard flat fee is $1,599 for most TDIU vocational evaluations — covering everything: records review, interview, analysis, and written report. If a vocational opinion won't materially help your case, we'll tell you before you commit.

Not Sure If You Qualify for TDIU?

Schedule a free consultation and we'll review your situation — no commitment required. If a vocational evaluation won't help your case, we'll tell you upfront.

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