Can Veterans Receive VA Disability and SSDI at the Same Time?

Veterans impacted by serious health issues, to the point of an inability to work, may be curious as to whether they can receive VA Disability and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. While these benefit programs are run by different agencies, Veterans can qualify for both programs. Knowing the ins and outs of both programs can help Veterans receive the maximum amount of benefits available to them.

VA Disability Compared to SSDI

Veterans whose medical conditions are linked to their military service qualify for VA Disability benefits. Conditions that started during active duty or worsened as a result of it qualify under VA Disability. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) rates each approved condition with percentages to determine the severity of the condition. These ratings are based on how much the condition impedes daily life.

SSDI is dependent on whether a person can work full-time or not due to a disability. There are no assigned percentages on injuries in the SSDI, they utilize an “all or nothing” approach: certain criteria labels an applicant as disabled or not. In order to qualify, an applicant must have paid Social Security taxes through jobs covered by the program and earned enough work credits to qualify.

Getting VA benefits will not guarantee SSDI approval, as SSDI benefits will not auto-qualify for VA benefits. Veterans will need to apply separately and meet each set of standards for each agency.

Can One Help With The Other?

Being approved for VA Disability will not automatically qualify a person for SSDI benefits, and the same is true in reverse. Both programs have differing requirements when looking at each individual case. Having a Permanent and Total VA disability rating may potentially expedite the Social Security Administration’s decision. If the condition is the same, a Veteran will still be required to show the condition still prevents him or her from working in order to qualify for SSDI. For VA Disability benefits, the Veteran is required to show their condition is service-connected.

Benefits of Pursuing Both

Qualifying for both programs could provide further financial security for Veterans, though it will require significant amounts of paperwork, records, and deadlines. An experienced attorney can help guide a Veteran through the application process of both systems.

Seek Help From an Experienced Attorney When Applying for Both VA Benefits and SSDI

Veterans across the country can find help at Jan Dils, Attorneys at Law, when pursuing VA Disability and/or SSDI benefits. We take pride in our commitment to serving the military community, and we offer free consultations. If you or a loved one are uncertain in regard to your eligibility, or you need assistance applying for either benefit, reach out to us today. We have separate teams that focus on each area, and can review your unique situation to set you up for success.