Disabled veterans may be able to receive Social Security Disability benefits at the same time they receive disability through the Veteran’s Administration (VA). VA benefits are available to military veterans who suffered a disability while on active duty. Social Security Disability benefits are available to disabled individuals who are unable to work because of a disability and also meet necessary work history requirements.
Once a disabled military veteran has been approved for VA disability benefits, if their disability also prevents them from working, they may be able to claim Social Security Disability benefits and receive both at the same time. When the applicant has applied for VA disability benefits, the applicant’s military records will be reviewed. Once it has been determined that the applicant is considered disabled, they will be given a disability rating ranging from 0 to 100 percent which impacts the amount of their benefit.
Qualifying for Social Security Disability benefits is based on total disability. The disabled individual must suffer from a disability that is so severe it prevents them from working and is expected to last 12 months or longer or result in death. To qualify for both types of benefits, most veterans will have an easier time applying if they meet a disability rating of 70 or higher. Veterans’ issues and how they impact disability are important for disabled individuals to understand.
Social Security Disability looks at the disabled individual’s medical condition and work history. It is important to note that expedited processing may be available in certain circumstances as well which is why understanding veterans benefits and Social Security Disability is so important for service members who are in need of the benefits.
