VA Disability and Social Security: Can You Receive Both Benefits?
You have put a lot of hard work into building financial stability and contributed to the country in various ways. You may know that you have access to VA disability benefits due to your service in the U.S. Armed Forces. However, VA disability and Social Security overlap in various ways. You need to know what your rights are in these situations.
Overview of VA Disability Benefits
VA disability benefits provide you with a tax-free payment received each month after you have suffered a disability due to a disease or injury resulting from your work and service in the U.S. Armed Forces. You must have served in the military and have a service-connected condition to qualify.
You will then have a VA disability rating issued that outlines how disabled you are and what ongoing limitations you may be facing. This determines your compensation amount. Payments begin with a disability rating of 10%.
Overview of Social Security Disability Benefits
Social Security benefits are monthly payments from the Social Security Administration paid to those who are unable to work due to a significant medical impairment. To qualify for these benefits, you must have contributed to the Social Security Administration during your working years. You must also meet very strict definitions of disability based on your particular condition.
After suffering an injury or disability, you must wait five months before benefits will begin. If you cannot work going forward, you become eligible for Medicare benefits after 24 months.
Can You Receive Both VA Disability and Social Security Benefits?
Yes, it is possible to receive both. These two programs operate separately from each other, and receiving benefits from one does not mean you cannot receive benefits from the other. However, you must apply to each program separately, and each has its own set of requirements for you to meet to qualify.
VA disability does not reduce Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) payments. However, SSO may be affected. It is crucial to understand the impact of VA disability on Social Security benefits before applying for either.
Key Differences in VA Disability and SSDI
Take a look at some of the VA disability and SSDI differences. There are several key differences:
VA disability is based on injuries and disabilities that are related to service-connected conditions. You were hurt because of the work you were doing in the military.
SSDI benefits are based on an inability to work as well as your prior work experience.
SSI is different – this is a program provided to those who earn under a certain income level for their area. SSI is need-based, which means that VA disability may affect your eligibility because of the value of compensation you are receiving.
Understanding VA disability and SSI is quite important. Before you apply, speak to a Veterans disability lawyer who can help you explore all avenues to ensure you are making the best decisions moving forward.
Impact on Each Other
VA disability compensation does not offset SSDI. If you are receiving income from the VA for your injury, it does not limit or restrict your ability to obtain SSDI.
Keep in mind that a VA pension, which is not compensation, may reduce your SSI payments. Because this is a needs-based program, it can often be offset or inaccessible if you are earning more than the maximum allowed with your VA funds.
Application Tips for Veterans
Without a doubt, there is an importance for Veterans to have access to the type of compensation they are owed to the fullest extent allowed under the law. Yet, knowing what your rights are can be challenging. When completing your application for benefits from either program, consider the following:
Evidence overlap is possible. Your medical records from the VA may help you to qualify for your SSDI for veterans.
Be sure that you provide the highest level of medical documentation that meets SSDI standards to receive benefits. If you are unsure what those are for your condition, speak to your attorney.
Time your applications properly. You do not want one to offset the other.
Be sure to explore all eligibility requirements for both programs. You should also consider your future medical limitations when determining your needs.
In all of these situations related to dual benefits for VA and Social Security, having an attorney by your side can be valuable.
When to Consult a Lawyer
There is no reason not to speak to an attorney about VA benefits and SSDI for veterans. If you are unsure if you can file a claim, or your claim was denied, now is the time to get answers from your attorney. You also need to know what the best route is for maximizing your benefits without losing eligibility. Your attorney can help you.
Talk to the VA Claims Lawyer: Turn to Our Veterans Disability Lawyer for Answers
At The VA Claims Lawyer, we provide exceptional legal insight to every person facing questions about disability. Contact our disability lawyer for immediate help. We serve clients nationwide and would be happy to offer a complimentary consultation to you. Call us at 877-VET-FILE or (850) 542-7985 now or use our contact form for a free VA claims review. With the guidance of a veteran disability lawyer, you will have more confidence going forward.
FAQs About VA Disability Benefits and Social Security
What is the VA disability impact on Social Security benefits?
VA disability benefits do not reduce your Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. They do impact Supplemental Security Income, though.
Does VA disability affect my Social Security retirement?
VA disability benefits are a form of compensation to you for a service-related disability. They do not reduce the amount you receive from Social Security retirement benefits.
What should I do if I do not know if I have VA disability compensation and SSI eligibility?
The best step to take is to contact a veterans disability attorney. Turn to the team for guidance on determining what factors impact your case. Our experience can help you navigate all of your losses.
