En español | Yes, military veterans who become disabled during their service can collect disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability compensation at the same time.
How long does SSDI take to make a decision for veterans?
three to four months
A person applies for disability benefits at a Social Security office or online, and receives an initial decision within three to four months. (Veterans with service-connected disabilities can have their cases expedited by asking Social Security to file a form called I-2-1-95.
What happens to my VA disability when I turn 65?
Even after veterans reach full retirement age, VA’s disability payments continue at the same level. By contrast, the income that people receive after they retire (from Social Security or private pensions) usually is less than their earnings from wages and salary before retirement.
Can you get Social Security disability if you are a veteran?
Veterans who have a VA disability with the U.S. Department of Veteran can potentially qualify for additional disability benefits from social security. Unfortunately if a veteran is receiving a pension from the VA and doesn’t meet the work history requirements, the veteran is no longer eligible for SSDI benefits and only qualifies for SSI.
Can a retired person also collect Social Security disability?
If you do collect SSDI disability benefits, they will be converted to retirement benefits when you reach full retirement age. The only exception is for an individual who took early retirement through Social Security, which is possible at 62, before being approved for disability benefits. Disabled before early retirement benefits start.
How does social security work for wounded veterans?
Social Security may also use VA or DOD evidence to expedite processing of claims for Wounded Warriors and veterans with a 100% disability compensation rating. Social Security approval does not necessarily help get VA benefits.
How are Social Security benefits calculated for veterans?
Social Security calculates your monthly benefit based upon your earnings history in both civilian and military occupations. This is much different from VA disability compensation, where you are paid based on how severe your disability is.
