As a disabled veteran, you may find it difficult to pay the bills on VA disability alone. This is an unfit situation for someone who has valiantly defended our nation’s flag.
If you are in this position, you could benefit from applying for Social Security Disability Insurance. Here are some common questions and answers about the relationship between SSDI and VA disability benefits.
Will my VA disability benefits affect my SSDI eligibility?
Fortunately, VA disability benefits do not affect SSDI benefit eligibility and vice versa. You can receive full payments from both VA and SSDI at the same time. You can also utilize the Medicare and Medicaid health benefits that accompany SSDI as a supplement to your VA healthcare.
Will the Social Security Administration process my claim quicker because I am a veteran?
If you sustained an injury while on active military duty after October 1, 2001, whether the injury occurred as a result of your service or not, the SSA may expedite your claim. Likewise, if you have a 100% permanent and total disability classification with VA, your claim may process quicker. However, your military service does not mean automatic approval. For your application to receive approval, you still must meet the criteria for SSDI, including sufficient work history, proper income amounts and a long-term injury or medical condition that prevents you from making enough money to survive.
You selflessly served your country. If you now need a little extra help, applying for SSDI benefits to supplement your VA benefits may give you the hand-up you need.
