Craft a Solid Statement for TDIU: Get Your Total Disability Claim Right

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Filed under:Work Impact & Special Benefits, Mental Health & Sleep Claims

Don't underestimate your TDIU statement. This is your chance to explain why you can’t work due to your service-connected conditions. A well-crafted statement can make or break your claim. It’s critical for the VA to understand your situation clearly. Here’s how to do it right:

- Outline your work history. Include jobs, duties, and how your conditions impacted your ability to perform.
- Describe your symptoms. Be specific about how they affect daily activities and job performance.
- Connect the dots. Clearly link your service-connected conditions to your inability to maintain gainful employment.
- Use your own words. Make it personal and genuine; avoid legal jargon.

Here’s a micro-script you can use:
"Due to my PTSD and chronic back pain, I’ve struggled to maintain consistent employment. My anxiety makes it difficult to interact with coworkers, and my back pain limits my ability to perform physical tasks. I’ve had to leave jobs because of these issues."

Bottom line: A strong statement can boost your TDIU claim significantly.

Disclaimer and Official Resources

VA Claim Helper is an independent, veteran-run resource. We’re not affiliated with the VA and don’t provide legal representation. This information is educational only.

For official claim assistance, please find an accredited representative (VSO, attorney, or claims agent) .

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About VA Claim Helper

VA Claim Helper is led by a U.S. Navy submariner (ET2/SS, USS Pittsburgh 1995–2005) translating VA law into plain-English claim strategy so veterans can document service connection, prep for C&P exams, and win ratings without guesswork.

We publish daily VA disability tips, evidence checklists, and field manuals that walk you from Intent to File through appeals. Every guide is battle-tested with the veteran community and refreshed when VA policy shifts so the intel stays mission ready.

Service: U.S. Navy • 1995–2005 • USS Pittsburgh (SSN 720), ET2/SS

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More Resources

  • Templates Hub — ready-to-copy letters, logs, and worksheets to support your claim.
  • Start Here — pick your path and follow the step-by-step game plan.
  • FAQ — clear answers to the most frequent VA claim questions.

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