You Earned These Benefits. We Help You Prove It.
A vocational assessment gives the VA the independent, documented evidence it needs to approve your TDIU claim — in language VA raters and BVA judges understand.
We know the VA process is exhausting. Our job is to make this part simple — one structured interview, a clear report, and a straightforward path to submission.
What is TDIU?
Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) allows veterans to receive VA disability compensation at the 100% rate — even when their combined rating falls below 100% — if their service-connected conditions prevent substantially gainful employment.
The VA's standard question: Can you maintain substantially gainful employment? If your service-connected conditions make that impossible or unrealistic, TDIU may be warranted.
Rating minimums: Generally one condition at 60%+, or a combined rating of 70%+ with at least one condition at 40%. Extraschedular grants are also available under § 4.16(b) when circumstances warrant it.
The gap the VA doesn't fill
The VA makes its own employability determination — but often without a vocational specialist. That determination may be based on a general reading of your records rather than a systematic analysis of what jobs you could realistically perform given your specific limitations.
An independent vocational assessment provides what the VA's process often lacks: a documented, methodologically sound analysis connecting your limitations to real-world occupational demands and labor market data.
Assessments are conducted by Jackie Schabacker, MA, CRC, LPC — an independent vocational expert focused exclusively on VA TDIU claims.
Get a Free ConsultationWhat happens in a vocational assessment
Every assessment follows the same structured process to ensure clear, defensible conclusions.
Records Review
We review your VA rating decisions, service medical records, and relevant treatment notes. We're looking at the limitations that are already established — pain levels, functional restrictions, medication side effects, cognitive impacts.
Work and Education History
We clarify your past relevant work, education, and training — the foundation for analyzing transferable skills and the types of jobs you could realistically perform.
Structured Vocational Interview
A 60–75 minute remote interview covers your current functional capacity, daily activities, pain patterns, and how your conditions affect your ability to work. This is conducted professionally and at your pace.
Labor Market Analysis
Using DOT job classifications, O*NET functional demands, and current labor statistics, we analyze whether the national job base is sufficiently eroded by your limitations.
Written Report Delivery
A clear, cited report states our findings and conclusions. Methods are explained step by step so the VA rater or BVA judge can follow the reasoning. Delivered within 5–7 business days of your interview.
Flat fee — no surprises
- Records review and intake
- Structured vocational interview (60–75 min, remote)
- Transferable skills analysis
- Labor market and job base erosion analysis
- Written report with methodology and citations
- Delivery in 5–7 business days
Add-ons available: Rush delivery · Supplemental declarations
Frequently asked by veterans
What Veterans Say
"I wanted to reach back to share with you that my TDIU claim was approved around Jan/Feb of 2025. It seemed to have moved through the system fairly quickly (at least in terms of how the VA operates). I did have to go through another VA mental health C&P follow-up exam during the claim after submitting all my documentation; however, I'm sure that's just part of their procedures. I really do appreciate your help throughout this process! I have shared your contact with a friend of mine who has been going through something similar and is looking for a resource to help with a TDIU claim. Thanks, Again!"
"The vocational interview was thorough but not overwhelming. They explained every step, and the report arrived in five days. My VSO said it was the most detailed employability analysis she'd seen submitted to the VA."
"I just received my decision from the VA today — I was awarded TDIU! I want to thank you so much for your attention to detail and listening to me during this process. I have had so many negative experiences with the VA, and your assistance is truly appreciated."