SSDI can provide veterans with additional monthly income when a disability prevents them from working. For veterans already receiving VA disability compensation, SSDI offers another source of financial support without reducing their VA benefits.
Here are two important ways SSDI can benefit veterans:
- Provides income based on work history: Unlike VA disability compensation, which is based on the severity of service-connected conditions, SSDI payments are calculated using your Social Security-covered earnings history. However, you must meet the SSA’s work credit and disability requirements to qualify.
- Covers disabilities unrelated to military service: You do not need a service-connected disability to qualify for SSDI. The SSA considers both service-connected and non-service-connected medical conditions when determining whether you can perform substantial gainful activity.
How Do SSDI Disability Requirements Differ From VA Disability Ratings?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses different disability standards from the VA. While the VA assigns disability ratings from 10 percent to 100 percent based on the severity of service-connected conditions, SSDI does not provide benefits for partial or short-term disabilities.
To qualify for SSDI, your condition must prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity and be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. This means you may qualify for VA disability compensation but not meet the SSA’s disability requirements.
How Can Veterans Apply for SSDI Benefits?
Veterans can apply for SSDI by confirming their eligibility, gathering medical and employment records, and submitting an application to the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Step 1: Confirm Your Work Credits and Eligibility
Start by checking whether you have earned enough Social Security work credits to qualify for SSDI. Both military and civilian earnings can count toward these requirements if you paid Social Security taxes. You can earn up to four work credits annually. The number required depends on your age when your disability began. Generally, applicants need up to 40 credits, including 20 earned in the 10 years before their disability began. Younger veterans may qualify with fewer credits.
For example, if you became disabled at age 35 after serving four years on active duty and working three years in a civilian job, you may meet the work credit requirements, provided you earned sufficient credits during that period. To check your eligibility, log into your my Social Security account to review your work credits and estimated disability benefits.
Step 2: Gather Your Medical and Military Documentation
The SSA uses medical and employment information to assess how your condition affects your ability to work. Gather the following records and information:
- Military records: Your DD Form 214 or other discharge documents, if applicable.
- VA disability documents: Your VA rating decision letters and relevant compensation and pension examination records.
- Medical history: Treatment records, diagnostic test results, medications, and contact information for your VA and private healthcare providers.
- Employment details: Information about jobs held during the five years before you became unable to work, including job duties, employment dates, and recent W-2 forms or tax returns.
You can still apply if you do not have every medical record. The SSA can help obtain additional records from your healthcare providers.
Step 3: Submit Your Application and Request Expedited Processing
Apply for SSDI online, by phone, or at your local Social Security office. The process includes completing Form SSA-16 and providing details about your medical conditions, treatment, and work limitations.
Certain veterans may qualify for faster application processing:
- 100% Permanent and Total (P&T) veterans: Those with a 100% P&T VA disability compensation rating qualify for expedited processing.
- Wounded Warriors: Veterans who developed an illness or injury while on active duty on or after October 1, 2001, may qualify for the Wounded Warriors expedited processing program.
The SSA usually identifies eligible veterans automatically. However, you should confirm your status and provide supporting documentation if requested. Expedited processing does not guarantee approval.
Step 4: Track Your Claim and Prepare for Next Steps
After submitting your application, check its status through your my Social Security account. A state Disability Determination Services (DDS) office will generally review your medical evidence to determine whether you meet the SSA’s disability requirements. If approved, SSDI benefits generally become payable after a five-month waiting period from your established disability onset date, although exceptions apply. If denied, you generally have 60 days after receiving the decision to request reconsideration. If reconsideration is unsuccessful, you can request a hearing before an administrative law judge. Review your decision notice carefully to understand your next steps and applicable deadlines.
Need Help Applying for SSDI Benefits?
If you have questions about your SSDI application or need assistance appealing a denial, Veterans Guide can help you understand your options and navigate the process. Contact our team today to get started.
