For the average person, applying for Social Security disability (SSD) benefits could take up to two years before they start receiving any benefits. That kind of time frame puts an enormous amount of financial stress upon the individual and the family, mainly because if you are applying for benefits you are saying you’re unable to work and thus unable to earn an income. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has recently come under significant scrutiny because of the lengthy processing time for disability claims.
Social Security has recently announced that they will expedite veterans’ claims for SSD benefits if they have a 100% rating through Veteran Affairs (VA). Carolyn Colvin, an acting commission of SSA stated, “Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our country, and it is only right that we ensure they have timely access to the disability benefits they may be eligible for and deserve.” Veterans already endure significant wait times when applying for VA benefits, upwards of 18 months for an initial review of their application. This move could cut months off their wait time for receiving disability benefits. Where this is a huge step in the right direction, just remember that this faster process only applies to those veterans who have been given a 100% disability rating from the VA.
So how do I qualify for benefits?
Veterans benefits and SSD benefits are similar in regards to the proof that is required. The main difference between the two programs is the level of disability required to receive compensation. The VA does NOT require total disability to be eligible for benefits. Veterans can receive any level of disability from 0% to 100% to be eligible for benefits. However, SSA requires a full 100% disability to receive benefits. There are no ratings when it comes to determining disability with SSD.
If you are a veteran with a 100% VA rating, you should consider applying for SSD benefits. Having a 100% VA rating does not automatically qualify you for disability benefits, but in this instance, it will help process your claim quicker.
Call an attorney that will handle every aspect of your case and get you the benefits you deserve.
