HOW VETERANS CAN GET SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS

Disabled veterans go through essentially the same process as non-veterans to get Social Security disability benefits. There are a few notable exceptions.

One exception is when the veteran has a 100 percent permanent VA disability rating.  This entitles the veteran for expedited claims processing.  If the initial decision is unfavorable, it will usually get the veteran a quicker hearing.

Also, under the Wounded Warrior provision, veterans are entitled to expedited claims processing if they were injured during military service after October 1, 2001. The injury does not have to be combat related.

 
The definition of disability for SSI/SSDI does not require the Veteran’s disability to be linked to their military service, does not take into account a Veteran’s discharge status, and does not pay on a graduated scale. For SSI/SSDI, the Veteran needs to show:
  1. Evidence of a physical or mental health condition, which results in functional impairments that limit their ability to work at a substantial gainful level (earnings of at least $1,130/month in 2016; the number for 2015 was earnings of $1,090 per month).  This applies only to earned (work related) income.
  2. That the disabling condition has lasted, or is expected to last, for 12 months or end in death.
The Forsythe Firm in Huntsville, AL has experience (and a good track record) of helping veterans get Social Security disability benefits.  There is no upfront fee for any service we provide and we never charge a service unless the veteran is approved for an SSI or SSDI benefit with back pay.  Contact us for a free case evaluation or consultation at (256) 799-0297.
 

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