How to Complete VA Form 21-8940 for TDIU Benefits 

Posted by Berry Law on February 21, 2025 in Veterans Appeals

Understanding VA Form 21-8940 for TDIU Claims 

Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU) provides 100% disability compensation to Veterans who cannot work due to service-connected disabilities, even if their combined VA rating does not reach 100%. 

To apply, Veterans must submit VA Form 21-8940, known as the Veteran’s Application for Increased Compensation Based on Unemployability. This form helps the VA assess how disabilities impact employability, making accuracy and thoroughness crucial for approval. 

This guide walks through each section of the form, offering tips to avoid common mistakes and maximize the chances of a successful claim. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing VA Form 21-8940 

Section 1: Veteran Identification Information 

The first section requires basic identifying details: 

• Full Name (as listed in military records) 

• Social Security Number (SSN) 

• VA File Number (if applicable) 

• Date of Birth 

• Mailing Address 

• Telephone Number 

• Email Address 

Tip: Double-check all information to match VA records exactly to avoid processing delays. 

Section 2: Disability and Medical Treatment 

This section asks about the service-connected disabilities preventing employment. Veterans should: 

• List service-connected conditions contributing to unemployability. 

• Indicate the date they became too disabled to work. 

• Provide details about their last full-time job. 

Tip: The VA looks for specific evidence connecting service-connected conditions to the inability to work. Statements about how exactly the Veteran’s conditions impact his employment can significantly help.   

Section 3: Employment History for the Past 5 Years the Veteran Worked 

Veterans must list all jobs to equal five years of employment history before becoming too disabled to work. This is not the past five years before the form was completed, but the past five years that the Veteran was able to work. If the Veteran completed the form in 2025, but hasn’t worked since 2020, then the veteran must include information from 2015-2020, if they worked that entire time. The form should include five years of working history.  Required details include: 

• Employer names, addresses, and phone numbers. 

• Job titles and duties performed. 

• Dates of employment (start and end dates). 

• Hours worked per week and income received. 

• Time lost from illness or disability. 

Tip: If employment was part-time, seasonal, or included accommodations, mention how disabilities affected job performance (e.g., frequent absences, inability to complete tasks). 

Section 4: Education and Training 

This section covers a Veteran’s educational background and any vocational training received. Veterans must: 

• List the highest level of education completed (e.g., high school diploma, GED, college degree). 

• Provide details on vocational training or apprenticeships. 

• Indicate whether they received training for a new job but couldn’t work due to disabilities. 

Tip: If a Veteran attempted vocational rehabilitation but was unable to complete it due to medical conditions, this strengthens a TDIU claim. 

Section 5: Remarks 

Here, Veterans can provide any additional information relevant to their claim. The Veteran should include information on why they cannot work.  

Section 6: Signature and Certification 

The final step requires: 

• Signature of the Veteran. 

• Date form was signed. 

Important: Unsigned forms will not be processed, so review all details before submission. 

What Happens After Submitting VA Form 21-8940? 

Once submitted, the VA reviews medical and employment records to determine TDIU eligibility. Veterans may be asked to: 

• Attend a Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam to assess disabilities. 

• Submit additional medical or employment evidence. 

• Complete VA Form 21-4192 (sent to previous employers to verify work history). 

Why VA Form 21-8940 is Critical for TDIU Claims 

VA Form 21-8940 serves as the foundation of a TDIU claim, providing essential details about disabilities, employment history, and educational background. 

A thorough, well-documented submission can significantly increase the chances of approval and help Veterans access the benefits they have earned. 

Need help filing for TDIU? Contact Berry Law today for a free case review. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About VA Form 21-8940 

1. Who should file VA Form 21-8940? 

Veterans who cannot maintain substantial employment due to service-connected disabilities should file this form to apply for TDIU benefits. 

2. Do I need to be unemployed to qualify for TDIU? 

Yes, substantial gainful employment must not be possible due to service-connected disabilities. However, marginal employment (earning below the federal poverty level) may still qualify for TDIU. 

3. Does TDIU provide the same compensation as a 100% VA disability rating? 

Yes, TDIU pays at the 100% disability rate even if a Veteran’s combined rating does not reach 100%. 

4. Can I receive Social Security Disability (SSDI) and TDIU at the same time? 

Yes, Veterans can qualify for both SSDI and TDIU, but the VA does not automatically approve TDIU based on SSDI approval. 

5. How long does it take to process a TDIU claim? 

Processing times vary, but initial claims take an average of 6-12 months. If an appeal is needed, it can take longer.