Getting Social Security Disability and VA Benefits

It is not uncommon for veterans to apply for both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits and veterans disability benefits at the same time. However, it is important to know that the two benefits programs do have different requirements and application rules.

The Difference Between SSDI and Veterans Benefits

One of the main differences between SSDI and veterans benefits is the level of disability required for each. In order to be eligible for SSDI, you must meet the Social Security Administrations (SSA) strict definition of a disability and not be able to work because of your condition. In other words, you must be totally disabled.

Veterans benefits, however, only require partial disability. Although you do not have to be completely disabled in order to receive these benefits, you do have to prove that your disability is service-related.

Does Getting Approved for One Help Approval for the Other?

The simple answer is yes. In certain circumstances, being approved for one type of disability benefits can help your likelihood of being approved for the other, but it depends on the situation.

If you have received a high VA rating for veterans benefits, the chances of a favorable decision for Social Security disability benefits are pretty good. This is because one federal agency has already determined that you are incapable of work all together or that full-time work would be difficult for you.

Another advantage in this situation is that the SSA will consider all of your disabling conditions, including those that are not service-related and that were not considered for veterans benefits.

However, if you are already approved for SSDI benefits and are in the process of applying for veterans benefits, the VA may not give much weight to the SSA’s decision. This is because veterans benefits are only awarded for service-related conditions, which the SSA does not take into consideration.

If your claim for SSDI benefits has been denied, turn to the experienced attorneys at Dayes Law Firm PC to help appeal your claim and get you the benefits you need.

To get started, contact a Phoenix Social Security disability attorney from Dayes Law Firm PC at 1-800-503-2000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation .