tdiu Tdiu Unemployability Claim

[Valenti]

I am the caregiver for my wife as such I am posting on her behalf.

In 2008 my wife was awarded 80% disability rating from the VA. The largest portion of her rating comes from Dysthymia disorder at 50%, the remaining being from physical alements.

In April of 2013 my wife became unemployed and as such had a mental breakdown.

She began to recieve additional treatment and was advised by a VA social worker to apply for unemployability, and we did that in July.

In November both her VA psychologist and psychiatrist signed off diagnosing her with Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Dysthymia & Personality Disorder,(that is much more then her initial VA disability claim but I assume it is all inter related)

The letter continues to state that it is of their opinion that due ther her anxiety, depression, and pain are of such severity that she cannot establish or maintain substantial gainful employment at the present time and the foreseeable future.

I scanned in and attached this letter into her claim as evidence.

The claim although still under processing now states that she is slated to have a answer in April of 2014. I guess I am just curious as to what to expect next and the chances of her recieving approval in April?

I have read that although it isn't suposed to age will often be a factor in approval or denial. My wife is 36 going on 37 this year.

[john999]

Any vet with a mental disorder rated at 70% should be able to get TDIU. I was 70% when I was actually awarded TDIU and it was for a mental disorder. I had no other ratings at that time. If you look at the rating schedule for a person with 70% for a emotional/mental disorder like depression or PTSD there is no way that person can hold down most jobs.

I really agree with you about the pool thing. I would have to drive almost 20 miles to us the VA's pool. I live close to MacDill AFB. I never considered using their pool. If it is an indoor pool that would be great.

I am sure you earn every dime as a caregiver. My wife retired to be my caretaker. Now I think I am her caregiver since her eyes give her trouble and she has a bad ankle. We are both in sorry shape as far as miserable conditions that will not kill you but make life a pain.

Where do you live? I know some good shrinks in Central Florida.

[Valenti]

To John99

Currently I am in Augusta GA, moving back to Omaha Nebraska in March (have family there that can help). So far her VA doctors have been real helpful in trying to help her get this as they see she isn't fit to be working. Really hoping the doctors in Nebraska will be as helpful. All her medical care is through the VA.

She only has been rated at 50% for her mental disorder (Dysthymic) the rest of her 80% is a variety of other things. If she got this TDUI I would be so happy for her, honestly I keep her out of the loop as much as I can cause it stresses her out more then needed.

[Valenti]

I just read something regarding the TDUI that has me a bit nervous to say the least.

My wife currently gets 50% for Dysthymic Disorder. As I stated we applied for TDUI, with a letter from her VA psychologist and psychiatrist. The letter however lists her as having a personality disorder.

I read that since personality disorder is listed when the VA opens up her records for this TDUI that they may tie her Dysthymic Disorder, to the personalty disorder. Since Personality Disorders are always considered a genetic or pre existing condition she may loose the 50% she is already getting?

Is this the case?

[meghp0405]

each time a veteran opens their claims many things can happen. if there is a reduction in benefits the VA is required to send the veteran a "proposal to reduce" letter. Also, the proposal can not be based off 1 C/P exam, there needs to be a minimum of 2.