TDIU pays at the 100% rate when your disabilities prevent substantially gainful employment. Check your eligibility path and 2026 income limits.
Check your eligibility path based on 38 C.F.R. § 4.16(a) and 38 C.F.R. § 4.16(b).
2026 poverty threshold: $15,960/year ($1,330/month) per 38 C.F.R. § 4.16(a).
$3,938.58/month
TDIU pays at 100% schedular rate per 38 U.S.C. § 1114. SMC-S may add ~$470 if you qualify under the 100+60 rule.
TDIU is governed by 38 C.F.R. § 4.16(a). A veteran does not need a 100% rating to be paid like one if their disabilities prevent substantially gainful employment.
A job that provides a living wage above the poverty line in a competitive market.
Work that earns less than the poverty line or occurs in a protected environment.
Per Rice v. Shinseki (2009), a claim for an increased rating is a claim for TDIU if the record shows unemployability. The VA must consider it.
| Trigger | Requirement | Finding needed | Citation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schedular A | One disability at 60% | MD statement: "Unable to work solely due to" | 38 C.F.R. § 4.16(a) |
| Schedular B | 70% combined (one at 40%) | Employment history showing terminations/absences | 38 C.F.R. § 4.16(a) |
| Extraschedular | Fails % requirements | Frequent hospitalizations or "exceptional picture" | 38 C.F.R. § 4.16(b) |
| Protected env | Earns > $15,960 | Evidence of "altruistic" hiring or "mercy" employment | LaBruzza v. McDonough (2024) |