Veterans & Social Security Disability: What You Need to Know
As a veteran, you have made sacrifices in service to our country and you deserve access to every benefit you have earned. If you suffered an injury that caused permanent disability as a result of military service, you may be able to collect disability benefits through the Department of Veteran’s Affairs and Social Security Disability (SSD). However, the process for securing compensation can be far from straightforward, leaving many confused as to their options. Below, our blog answers some of the most frequently asked questions about Social Security Disability options for veterans.
Frequently asked questions about veterans and SSD benefits include:
- Are veterans eligible to collect both veterans and SSD benefits concurrently? Yes. Veterans may collect both benefits simultaneously. While both programs pay disability benefits, their processes and requirements differ greatly. You must apply for each benefit separately and approval for one program does not necessarily affect approval for the other. Additionally, the qualifying disability must have occurred as a direct result of military service.
- Can family members receive benefits? Yes. Unmarried children may be eligible for benefits if they are (1) younger than 18 years old or (2) older than 18 with a qualifying disability. Spouses may qualify if they are (1) older than 62 or (2) care for a young child or child with a disability.
- Are there unique benefits available for veterans? Yes. Veterans who were injured while on active duty may apply for expedited service, allowing their applications to be processed more quickly. Veterans whose injury occurred on or after October 1, 2001, may be eligible for this service.
- How long will it take before I know if I am approved? Just as each applicant has a unique story, the amount of time a decision may take will be different for every situation. Factors such as the nature of your injuries, needed medical evidence, and the applicant’s preparedness can all affect the time a claim takes to process.
Fair and Timely Compensation for Disabled Veterans
The application process for both Veterans and SSD benefits can be tremendously complex, however, you do not have to navigate this process alone. Whether you want to contest the denial of a claim or are just beginning the application process, Disability Action Advocates can help. Our Sacramento Social Security disability attorneys possess more than two decades of experience helping injured veterans get the compensation that they deserve.
Questions about your SDD claim? Contact us today at (888) 421-8705 to speak to an attorney about your legal options.