I'm a Disabled Vet. Can I get Social Security Disability?

Starting March 17, 2014, veterans who have a VA compensation rating of 100% permanent and total (P&T) may receive expedited processing of applications for Social Security disability benefits.

What do I need to know about the VA and Social Security programs?

Both Social Security and VA pay disability benefits. However, their programs, processes, and criteria for receiving benefits are very different.

A VA compensation rating of 100% Permanent and Total does not guarantee that you will receive Social Security disability benefits. To be approved for Social Security benefits, you must meet Social Security's definition of "disability." To be found disabled:

• You must be unable to do substantial work because of your medical condition(s); and

• Your medical condition(s) must have lasted, or be expected to last, at least one year or to result in death.

If you receive VA compensation, this will not affect your Social Security benefits.

As a veteran rated 100% P&T, how do I receive expedited processing for Social Security disability benefits?

First, you must apply for Social Security disability benefits. You can do this in one of three ways:

• Complete your application online;

• Call the SSA toll-free telephone number, 1-800-772-1213. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can call TTY 1-800-325-0778; or

• Call or visit your local Social Security office.

Important: If you want to apply in person, please call and make an appointment before you visit your local office.

What should I do to receive expedited processing of my Social Security disability application?

To receive expedited processing, you must:

1. Identify yourself as a "veteran rated 100% P&T" when you apply for benefits.

• If you apply in person or over the phone, please tell the Social Security representative you talk to that you are a veteran rated 100% P&T.

• If you apply online, please enter "Veteran 100% P&T" in the "Remarks" section of the application so that we can identify you and expedite your application. 

2. Provide your VA Notification letter which verifies your 100% P&T rating to Social Security.

How long does the process take?

The length of time it takes Social Security to make a disability decision depends on several different factors, but primarily on:

• The nature of your disability;

• How quickly we obtain medical evidence from your doctor or other medical sources; and

• Whether it is necessary to send you for a medical examination in order to obtain evidence to support your claim.

What about Medicare?

If your application for Social Security disability benefits is approved, you will receive Medicare coverage automatically after you have received disability benefits for 24 months.

Source

www.ssa.gov/people/veterans/100pt.html

An Accredited Disability Representative with more than 20 years experience, Diana Wade believes her clientele can be comfortable knowing that she is recognized by SSA and a charter member of NADR. To contact Ms. Wade call (661) 821-0494, email [email protected] or visit CaliforniaDisability.net.