As a veteran facing disability, you could receive support from both the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Social Security Administration (SSA). Understanding the nuances of these parallel systems can be crucial in maximizing the benefits available to you.
Defining VA Disability and Social Security Disability
VA disability compensation is a monthly benefit paid to veterans who have incurred an illness, injury, or condition during their military service, or if a pre-existing condition was aggravated by their service. The VA evaluates the severity of each disability and assigns a corresponding percentage rating, ranging from 0% to 100%.
On the other hand, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are programs administered by the Social Security Administration. These benefits are granted to individuals who have a medical condition that prevents them from engaging in substantial gainful employment for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. The SSA evaluates disability based on an all-or-nothing approach, determining whether an applicant is considered “disabled” or “not disabled” in their assessment.
Eligibility for VA Disability and SSDI
The eligibility requirements for VA disability compensation and SSDI differ in several key ways. For VA disability, veterans must show that their current disability is related to an injury, illness, or event that occurred during their military service. This can include conditions that were aggravated by the veteran’s time in the service, even if the underlying condition existed prior to enlistment.
To qualify for SSDI applicants must have a sufficient work history and have paid a minimum amount into the Social Security system through payroll taxes. Additionally, the SSA requires that the disability be severe enough to prevent the individual from engaging in any substantial gainful employment for at least 12 months.
Receiving Both VA Disability and SSDI
While VA disability benefits and Social Security disability benefits are distinct programs, they can often be combined to maximize the financial support available to veterans. It is important to note that VA disability compensation does not affect eligibility for SSDI, as the SSA only considers earned income when determining SSDI qualifications.
However, VA disability benefits may be factored into the calculation for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), as SSI is a needs-based program that considers all sources of income, including VA disability payments. In such cases, the SSA may offset the SSI benefit amount to account for the VA disability income.
Expedited Processing and Specialized Programs
To assist veterans in navigating the complex disability benefits landscape, both the VA and the SSA have implemented specialized programs and expedited processing options. The Wounded Warrior program, for instance, prioritizes reviewing SSDI claims for those who have served in the military after October 1, 2001, reducing the time it takes to receive a decision.
Additionally, veterans with a 100% permanent and total disability rating from the VA may be eligible for expedited processing of their SSDI claim, further streamlining the application process. These specialized programs and expedited options can be invaluable for veterans who are struggling to make ends meet because of their service-connected disabilities.
Getting Help filing for VA and Social Security Disability Benefits
Applying for disability benefits, whether through the VA or the SSA, can be a daunting and complex process. Many veterans find it beneficial to seek the guidance of experienced professionals, such as VA-accredited claims agents or Social Security disability attorneys. These professionals can help navigate the application process, ensure proper documentation, and increase the chances of receiving their full range of benefits.
As a veteran-owned law firm, Brock and Stout’s legal staff dedicate themselves to honoring the sacrifice of our veterans by helping them pursue the help they need. If you are a disabled veteran needing help in applying for VA and Social Security disability benefits, contact us for a free evaluation to let us see if we can help you.