Our veterans of the US armed forces endure many sacrifices in the course of duty. Those returning home from service may suffer physical and emotional injuries from their military roles. When an injury or condition makes it difficult for a veteran to pursue gainful employment, their only option may be through social security disability benefits.
Pursuing more comprehensive benefits
Despite the recognition of a US military veteran’s injuries, there are still many obstacles in place for those veterans applying for disability benefits. For those veterans wounded in the course of service, there may be eligibility options for both VA and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. Here are some clarifications for what benefits may be available to you:
- Partial vs. full benefits: A veteran’s VA benefits are typically determined through an assessment of their injuries. A veteran may receive partial benefits depending on the extent of their injuries. SSDI benefits tend to be more comprehensive for veterans who qualify for coverage.
- Expedited applications: The SSDI applications of veterans are typically expedited compared to civilian applications.
- Income: Your income could affect the amount of coverage you receive. If you continue to receive payments from your particular branch, this may not necessarily affect your eligibility for SSDI, unless your gross income includes other sources of income.
Finding what benefits you’re eligible for
As a veteran, you probably wouldn’t expect that once combat was over, you would have to fight for the benefits you’re owed. The variety and severity of injuries from military service, ranging from traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) to PTSD and chronic pain conditions, can create unique disability scenarios for each person affected. Whether you had a total application rejection or were issued partial benefits, a lawyer experienced in disability benefits for veterans could help guide you through this process to determine if you have any counterclaims or appeals available to your case.