Understanding TDIU: Total Disability Benefits for Veterans in Washington State

Nov 06 2025 19:00

Many veterans across Washington State and Idaho live with service-connected conditions that make it difficult—or impossible—to maintain steady employment. For those veterans, the VA offers Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) benefits. These benefits provide compensation at the 100% disability rate, even if a veteran’s combined disability rating is less than 100%.

 

As a TDIU attorney in Washington and Idaho, I’ve seen how life-changing these benefits can be. If you’re struggling to work because of service-connected disabilities, it’s important to understand how TDIU works and how to strengthen your claim.

What Is TDIU?

 

TDIU, or Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability, is a special designation that allows veterans to receive full disability compensation when their conditions prevent them from securing or maintaining substantially gainful employment.

In short: If you can’t work because of your service-connected conditions, TDIU may provide the total disability veteran benefits in WA and ID  you’ve earned.

Basic Eligibility for TDIU

 

The VA has specific criteria for TDIU, which generally include:

  • One service-connected disability rated at 60% or higher, OR

  • Two or more service-connected disabilities with one at least 40% and a combined rating of 70% or higher.

However, even if you don’t meet these thresholds, you may still qualify under an “extra-schedular” basis if your conditions clearly prevent you from working.

Evidence That Strengthens a TDIU Claim

 

To win a veteran unemployability claim, strong evidence is essential. Examples include:

  • Medical records showing the severity of your conditions

  • Independent medical opinions (IMOs) linking your disability to unemployability

  • Statements from employers explaining work limitations or terminations

  • Personal statements describing how your conditions impact daily life and job performance

An experienced TDIU attorney can help gather and organize this evidence so your claim is clear, credible, and well-documented.

Common Challenges with TDIU Claims

 

The VA often denies TDIU applications for reasons such as:

  • Insufficient medical evidence

  • Confusion between service-connected and non-service-connected conditions

  • Misunderstanding about “substantially gainful employment” versus “marginal employment”

If your claim has been denied, don’t give up. Many veterans succeed on appeal with the right legal support.

Why Work with a Local Attorney?

 

While national firms may advertise heavily, working with a Washington-based veteran benefits lawyer means you get direct, personal attention. I know the VA system and the challenges Washington State veterans face. At my firm, you’ll work directly with me—not a case manager in another state.

Final Thoughts

 

TDIU benefits can provide critical financial stability for veterans who can no longer work because of service-connected conditions. If you believe you may qualify, don’t wait—get the guidance and support you need.

 

At Farrell Law Office, I help veterans throughout Eastern Washington pursue the total disability veteran benefits in WA and ID they deserve.

 

📞 Call (509) 326-8387 today for a free consultation and learn how I can help with your veteran unemployability claim.