As a veteran, it is important to remember that if you are drawing disability benefits from the VA, that may not be your only option for collecting disability benefits. If your disability prevents you from working, you might also qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.
Getting compensation from both sources can be a big help with making ends meet when you cannot work and earn an income. If you are receiving VA disability benefits, you will still need to make a separate application for SSDI.
However, if you have a 100 percent permanent and total (P & T) disability rating from the VA, you will qualify to have your application for SSDI benefits expedited. When securing SSDI benefits can take more than a year (or sometimes more), this is a crucial benefit.
What You Need To Do
Remember, your VA 100 percent rating does not guarantee you receiving SSDI benefits. To gain approval, you will still need to prove that your disability will prevent you from working and that your condition will last or has already lasted for at least one year.
Additionally, when you are applying, you will need to make sure you note your 100 percent P & T status. You will also need to provide your official notification letter from the VA that verifies your rating.
While the Social Security Administration will expedite its consideration of your application, it could still deny your application for the same reasons it does many other people’s initial applications. That means it will be important to collect and submit every important piece of medical evidence to prove the severity of your disability. Work closely with your doctor to make sure everything is well documented.
If the SSA denies your claim, remember that this is not the end of the road. There is a multi-level appeals process that gives you multiple opportunities to have your case reheard. Working with an experienced lawyer who can help you assemble a strong appeal can provide a strong advantage for achieving a successful outcome.