Should I file for the TDIU benefit?

Meet Jim

Jim Strickland is a Vietnam era Army veteran and nationally recognized expert on VA disability benefits who is also editor and webmaster of the popular VA Watchdog website. Jim writes extensively about VA and Social Security disability benefits. Jim is kind enough to answer questions from visitors on StatesideLegal.org here in Jim's Mailbag.

About Jim's Mailbag

Jim's Mailbag is a regular column where veterans, servicemembers, and family members can find answers about their VA and Social Security disability benefits. Although we are not accepting new questions at this time, you can browse all of the previous Q&As here and search Jim's Mailbag for helpful answers to your specific VA issue.

Question:

I am 90% service connected static rated, of which 70% is PTSD. Would it be advisable to file IU?

Jim's Reply:

It's advisable to file for the TDIU benefit any time you aren't able to seek or hold gainful employment due to your service connected rated conditions. If you are able to work, you should...no matter your rating. Work is more than just a monetary reward and can be important in keeping disabled veterans in the main stream of society. However, if you aren't working, you're eligible for the TDIU benefit and you should proceed to file the TDIU claim.