What to Know About Social Security Disability for Veterans

 You've courageously served our country and now you're disabled. What do you do? Nearly 3.8 million US Veterans are currently living with a disability. If you're a disabled veteran who can't work full-time, you have options. Here are several things you should know about social security disability benefits:

1. Even if you're already receiving benefits from Veterans Affairs, you can still apply for Social Security Disability.

2. VA disability compensation and Social Security compensation play by different rules.
Social Security evaluates whether your disability prevents you from working, while VA uses a percentage system to classify the severity of your disability.

3. There is no length of service requirement to receive benefits.

4. You can apply for Social Security Disability online, by phone, or by visiting your local Social Security office.

5. To apply for SSDI, you'll need a work history report and your medical records.

6. Social Security calculates your compensation based on your civilian and military earning history, while VA pays you according to how severe your condition is.

Requirements for Veterans' Social Security Disability Benefits
• You must prove that you are "totally and permanently disabled," meaning you are unable to work due to your medical condition.
• Your disability must have lasted or be expected to last at least one year.

Advantages of Receiving SSDI as a Veteran
• All military service members who were on active duty on or after October 1, 2001 receive an accelerated application process.
• If you have a VA rating higher than 70%, you are more likely to receive additional SSDI benefits.
• Many SSDI recipients can't earn money by working because it can affect their disability benefit eligibility. However, SSDI allows them to receive non-work military pay and does not put them at risk for disqualification.

It can be incredibly confusing and overwhelming to weave through the social security disability filing process. However, you always have the right to hire an attorney to help you. Joe McCarron is available to provide the assistance you need whether it's with the initial filing process or an appeal after a denied claim. Call to set up a free one-hour consultation today at 309-820-1010 or visit mccarronlawfirm.com for more information.