Ways TDIU Could Change in 2025

Total disability based on individual unemployability (TDIU) provides an important safety net for veterans with VA disability ratings below 100% who are unable to work. TDIU classification allows a veteran with a disability rating as low as 60% to receive benefits at the 100% level.

If you’re a veteran who relies on TDIU classification or you’re hoping to increase your benefits by seeking a TDIU designation, you may be uneasy about the rumors of big changes to the program. Here’s what you need to know about what’s being discussed and how those changes could impact veterans.

How Do You Get TDIU Classification?

Currently–in September of 2025–a veteran can be classified as totally disabled due to individual unemployability if two conditions are met:

The veteran is unable to earn a living due to their service-connected condition or conditions, and
They have a qualifying disability rating

The qualifying disability rating is different depending on whether the veteran is rated for a single condition or a combination of conditions. A 60% VA disability rating for a single condition is sufficient to qualify a veteran for TDIU consideration. Alternatively, the veteran may have a 70% disability rating for a combination of conditions, with at least one condition rated at 40% or higher. Occasionally, TDIU status may be assigned when a veteran does not meet these rating requirements.

What are the Benefits of TDIU Classification?

A veteran who is found to be totally disabled based on individual unemployability is entitled to veterans’ benefits at the 100% disability level, regardless of their actual VA disability rating. That can make a significant difference. For example, in 2025, a veteran with a 60% disability rating receives base monthly VA disability benefits of $1,395.93. At a 70% disability rating, the monthly monetary benefit is $1,759.19. But if a veteran with a 60% or 70% rating is classified TDIU, their benefits jump to the 100% level–$3,831.30/month.

The veteran will also be entitled to some additional benefits not available at the lower rating levels, such as dental care. If the TDIU classification is permanent, the veteran’s dependents may be entitled to benefits such as educational assistance and healthcare.

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What’s Next for TDIU?

The TDIU classification was created by VA regulation, not by statute. That means changes to the TDIU program wouldn’t have to pass through Congress. Several different types of changes have been suggested. The motivation for these efforts to revamp TDIU seems to be simply to save the government money. None of the suggestions that crop up from time to time increase access to TDIU classification or benefits for veterans.

Some proposals include:

Cutting off TDIU Benefits at Retirement Age

The rationale for this change is that TDIU classification is awarded to provide income for a veteran who is unable to support themself through work. However, everyone’s income from work terminates when they retire.

On the surface, the argument makes sense. In reality, though, this type of change would hurt disabled veterans. A veteran who has been reliant on VA disability income because they can’t work also hasn’t had an employer-matched 401(k) growing during those years. Depending on the age at which they became disabled, they may not even be eligible for Social Security retirement benefits, or may receive very low benefits due to limited earnings from work.

Limiting Eligibility for TDIU

Currently, any disabled veteran who has the requisite disability rating and is unable to earn a living due to their service-connected disabilities may be eligible for TDIU classification and increased benefits. One suggestion that has been floated is limiting that eligibility to particular groups of veterans, such as those who served in combat.

The inclination to give something extra to veterans who became disabled in combat is understandable, but defeats the purpose of TDIU–to provide sufficient support for a veteran who has lost the ability to earn a living due to service-connected disabilities.

Means Testing for TDIU

If this change took effect, veterans would only qualify for Total disability individual unemployability classification and enhanced benefits if they could demonstrate financial need. Like the retirement age proposal, this one may seem sensible at a glance. If TDIU is intended to provide income for disabled veterans who can’t earn a living, why should that benefit be extended to veterans who have plenty of resources without working?

The answer is simple: VA disability benefits provide compensation for veterans who have suffered losses due to their military service. A veteran with a 100% VA disability rating receives full monthly benefits whether they are reliant on those benefits or have millions of dollars in the bank. A veteran who has been assigned TDIU classification has effectively been deemed completely disabled, and is entitled to those same benefits.

Should I Be Worried about My TDIU Benefits?

Though many changes have been discussed, there don’t appear to be any significant alterations to the TDIU program in the immediate future. Regulatory changes require a notice period and the opportunity for public comment, so we’ll have plenty of time to update you if changes are formally proposed.

However, if you have been considering pursuing Total disability individual unemployability classification, it may be in your best interest to act as soon as possible. Although we can’t know in advance how any future changes will be handled, the VA often grandfathers in people who already have a particular rating or are receiving a particular benefit. That means that even if TDIU benefits are limited in the future, there is a possibility that those who have already been deemed totally disabled due to individual unemployability may retain benefits.

Call 1-888-373-4722 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form

Disabled Vets Can Help

The advocates at Disabled Vets have the knowledge and experience to assist you at every stage of your VA disability claim or appeal. Whether you are just considering filing a claim, want to pursue Total disability individual unemployability classification, believe your VA disability rating is too low, or have had a claim denied, we’re here for you. Call us today at 888-373-4722 or fill out our contact form.

Call 1-888-373-4722 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form