No, you don’t have to quit your job if you receive 100% VA disability benefits. Veterans who qualify for Total Disability Individual Unemployability (TDIU), however, face restrictions.  

Here’s the difference between the two: 

  • 100% VA Disability Rating: If you have a 100% schedular rating (from one or multiple conditions), you can work without restrictions and still receive your full benefits. 
  • TDIU Benefits: If you receive 100% benefits through TDIU, which compensates veterans who can’t maintain substantially gainful employment due to their service-connected disabilities, working full-time or earning above the poverty threshold can disqualify you. Marginal employment (e.g., jobs with significantly lower income or protected work environments) is allowed. 

If your 100% rating is schedular, you can keep your job. If you’re receiving TDIU, strict employment limits apply to continue receiving those benefits. Want to learn more about TDIU? Check out our comprehensive guide here. 

Content Reviewed by

Cassandra Crosby

Cassandra Crosby, Claims Advocate Avatar

Cassandra Crosby is an Accredited Agent and VA Trainer for Hill & Ponton, which she joined in the spring of 2016. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies and over 20 years of experience of management of non-profits programs in Mental Health, Substance Abuse, and Victim Services. A Florida native, she was a military daughter/spouse and has familial ties to the Marines, Air Force, Navy, and Army.

Written by

Claire Szewczyk

Claire Szewczyk is a former US Airforce civilian employee who worked at Hill Air Force Base in Layton, UT as a flight testing administrator. She has also spent several years working with the Department of Veterans Affairs audiology programs in Salt Lake City, UT and Pocatello, ID. She enjoys working with the Veteran population and keeping them up to date with information they need the most.