Veterans who suffer from a physical condition such as diabetes that is directly connected to their time in service may qualify for disability benefits. If the condition is severe and makes the Veteran unable to work or sustain gainful employment, they may qualify for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU).

Proving Diabetes Is a Service-Connected Condition

Diabetes Patient Checking Their Blood Sugar LevelsTo receive a service connection for diabetes, there must be evidence that proves that the Veteran’s condition was caused by their military service or that their time in service worsened the condition. Diabetes can cause a range of symptoms such as blurred vision, fatigue, weight loss, extreme thirst, or hunger. It can also cause frequent infections and slow-healing sores or wounds. Some symptoms become so severe that it becomes difficult to maintain employment.

There are two types of diabetes:

  • Type 1. This type requires a person to receive insulin injections daily to prevent a buildup of sugar in their bloodstream.
  • Type 2. This is more common and is typically caused by being overweight. Type 2 diabetes can be controlled by diet and exercise, and in some cases, the person may require medication.

Those diagnosed with diabetes will need to provide proof of the condition and that the diagnosis was made during their time in service.

Evidence That Can Provide Proof of a Service Connection

  • Personnel records that show that the Veteran’s symptoms caused changes in their mood while serving in the military and that these changes affected their performance.
  • Records that show that there were specific incidents that occurred as the result of diabetes, such as the Veteran falling asleep or passing out while on duty.

How the VA Rates Diabetes Mellitus to Determine TDIU

To qualify for TDIU if you have diabetes, the VA will use your earnings and disability rating to determine eligibility. If you are not substantially gainfully employed or work in a protected workplace where your wages are below the federal poverty level, you may be eligible for TDIU.

In addition, another factor used to determine TDIU eligibility is the disability rating given by the VA. The VA rates diabetes mellitus as the following:

  • 100 percent rating. The person requires more than one daily injection of insulin, is on a restricted diet, and there is a regulation of their activities, such as avoiding any strenuous recreational or occupational activities, with episodes of ketoacidosis or hypoglycemic reactions that require at least three stays in the hospital per year or requires weekly visits to a diabetic care provider. Plus there is progressive weight loss, loss of strength, and any complications related to the condition that would not be eligible for compensation if evaluated separately.
  • 60 percent rating. The person requires one or more daily injections of insulin, is on a restricted diet, and there is a regulation of their activities with episodes of ketoacidosis or hypoglycemic reactions that require one or two stays in the hospital per year or require two visits monthly to a diabetic care provider, plus any complications related to the condition that would not be eligible for compensation if evaluated separately.
  • 40 percent rating. The person requires one or more daily injections of insulin, is on a restricted diet, and there is a regulation of their activities.
  • 20 percent rating. The person requires one or more daily injections of insulin or oral hypoglycemic medication and is on a restricted diet.
  • 10 percent rating. The condition is managed by diet alone.

For those rated 100 percent and are unable to be gainfully employed, TDIU may be awarded. An experienced VA disability attorney can help review your case and assist with your claim application, giving you the best chance of a favorable outcome. If your claim was denied, an attorney could help file an appeal.

Contact Our Office For Help With Your Claim

If you have been denied TDIU benefits for diabetes or need help with your claim, contact the office of Sean Kendall, Attorney-at-Law, for a free, no-obligation consultation. We may be able to help you with the appeal process for any disputes you may have with a claim determination and protect your legal rights so you can get the benefits you deserve. Call us today at 877-629-1712 or use our online contact form to find out more.