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How Do I Apply for TDIU?

Veterans can apply for TDIU in any of the following ways

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) awards a Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU), to veterans who are unable to secure and maintain substantially gainful employment as a result of service-connected conditions.  TDIU is equivalent to the 100-percent schedular disability rating in terms of monthly compensation. There are several different ways to apply for TDIU.

Below, we discuss these various ways, and specify the documentation needed to apply.

Different Ways to Apply for TDIU

Veterans can apply for TDIU in any of the following ways:

  • Online;
  • Via fax or mail; or
  • In person at your local VA office; or
  • with help from an accredited representative.

Before applying, you may want to discuss your case with your VA disability attorney.  As a client of CCK, our veterans law team will work with you to thoroughly develop your claim.

Applying Online

You can apply online using VA.gov.  To apply for TDIU, you must complete VA Form 21-8940, Veteran’s Application Based on Unemployability.

The form requires you to provide the following information:

  • Your Social Security Number;
  • Your VA file number;
  • Your employment history going back five years from your last date of employment (e.g., if your last date of employment was January 1, 2013, your employment history must go back five years before that);
  • Your education, training, certifications, and job skills obtained before you became disabled;
  • Any training you received after you became disabled;
  • Your date of disability;
  • Any treatment you have received;
  • Any hospitalizations during the previous 12 months;
  • How your disability prevents you from securing and maintaining substantially gainful employment.

Via Phone or Mail

If you choose to apply via fax or mail, you can print out the VA Form 21-8940, fill it out, and send it off along with the supporting documentation outlined above. Please find VA’s contact information below.

PhoneMail
Toll Free: 844-531-7818
Local: 248-524-4260
Department of Veterans Affairs
Evidence Intake Center
PO Box 4444
Janesville, WI 53547-4444

Applying in Person with Help from a VA Representative

If you would rather to apply in person, you can do so at your local VA office. Find your regional benefits office. When you apply at a VA office, a field representative will be available to help you with your claim and walk you through the process.

While the VA does allow walk-in appointments for assistance with your VA claims,  it is still a good idea to schedule an appointment or confirm they have availability.

Regardless of how you decide to apply for TDIU, it might be helpful to have an experienced veterans disability lawyer assist you throughout the process.

Call 800-544-9144 to Schedule a Free Disability Case Evaluation From Chisholm Chisholm & Kilpatrick LTD

At Chisholm Chisholm & Kilpatrick LTD, our veterans lawyers focus on assisting veterans in pursuing the benefits to which they are entitled. For a free case evaluation with a member of our team call our office at 800-544-9144 for your free consultation.