Principal Attorney
As veterans who have served our country, you may face disabling conditions that impact your ability to work and maintain financial security. Fortunately, there are two main types of disability benefits available to veterans: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Veterans Affairs (VA) Disability Compensation.
SSDI vs. VA Disability Compensation
While both SSDI and VA Disability Compensation aim to support disabled veterans, they have distinct eligibility criteria and application processes:
SSDI
SSDI is administered by the Social Security Administration and is available to all Americans, including veterans, who have worked and paid into the Social Security system. Eligibility is based on your work history and the severity of your disability, regardless of whether it’s service-related.
VA Disability Compensation
VA Disability Compensation, on the other hand, is specifically for veterans with disabilities that resulted from or were aggravated by their military service. The amount of compensation is determined by the degree of disability, ranging from 0% to 100%.
Eligibility for Both Programs
Many veterans may qualify for both SSDI and VA Disability Compensation simultaneously. It’s important to understand that receiving benefits from one program does not automatically disqualify you from the other. In fact, pursuing both can potentially maximize your overall benefits and financial support.
To be eligible for SSDI, you must have:
- Worked long enough and recently enough to have sufficient work credits
- A medical condition that meets the SSA’s definition of disability
- An inability to engage in substantial gainful activity due to your disability
For VA Disability Compensation, you need to:
- Have served on active duty, active duty for training, or inactive duty training
- Have a disability rating for a service-connected condition
The Application Process
While it’s possible to apply for both benefits simultaneously, the processes are separate and require different approaches:
SSDI Application:
- Gather all necessary medical records, work history, and personal information
- Apply online through the SSA website, by phone, or in person at a local SSA office
- Provide detailed information about your disability and how it affects your ability to work
- Be prepared for a potentially lengthy review process, which may include appeals if your claim is initially denied
VA Disability Compensation Application:
- Collect service records, medical evidence, and any documentation of your disability
- File a claim online through the VA’s eBenefits portal or with the help of an accredited representative
- Attend any required Compensation and Pension (C&P) exams
- Await the VA’s decision, which will include a disability rating if approved
Maximizing Your Chances of Approval
To increase your likelihood of success in both systems:
- Be thorough and honest in all applications and communications
- Provide comprehensive medical evidence, including records from both VA and civilian healthcare providers
- Meet all deadlines and respond promptly to any requests for additional information
- Consider seeking assistance from an experienced disability attorney who understands both systems
The Impact of VA Disability on SSDI Benefits
While you can receive both VA Disability Compensation and SSDI, your VA benefits may affect your SSDI payments. Generally, VA Disability Compensation does not reduce your SSDI benefits. However, if you’re receiving a VA Pension (a needs-based benefit), your receipt of SSDI benefits may impact your eligibility or payment amount.
The Role of an Experienced Disability Attorney
Dealing with both the SSDI and VA Disability Compensation systems can be complex and overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with the challenges of a disability. At the Disability Advocates Group, our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping veterans in Los Angeles, Encino, Ventura County, Santa Barbara County, and throughout Southern California secure the benefits they need and deserve.
We understand the nuances of both systems and can guide you through the application processes, help gather necessary evidence, and represent you in appeals if needed. Our goal is to maximize your benefits while minimizing stress and confusion.
Contact Our Social Security Disability Attorneys
As a veteran, you’ve served our country with honor, and now it’s time to provide you with the support you’ve earned. By understanding the differences between SSDI and VA Disability Compensation and by approaching both systems strategically, you can maximize your benefits and secure the financial support you need. Let us help. Call Disability Advocates Group today at (866) 761-2230.
