Veterans often ask us if they can collect Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits and veteran’s disability benefits at the same time. The answer, which comes as a surprise to many veterans, is yes.
There are differences between the system that the Social Security Administration (SSA) uses to determine if someone can collect benefits and the system that the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) uses. The VA uses a structured percentage system to determine if someone is disabled, meaning a veteran can be 50, 60 or even 100 percent disabled. The SSA uses an “all or nothing” approach when it comes to determining whether a person qualifies for SSDI. This is important to keep in mind if you are applying for SSDI. If you are receiving benefits because you are considered 25 percent disabled by the VA, that is a strong indication that you are not eligible for SSDI benefits.
Qualifying for SSDI
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) requires applicants to show that they cannot do work because of their medical conditions. Applicants also have to show that their disabilities have lasted for longer than a year or could result in death. For more information on Social Security Disability qualifications, we suggest you visit our FAQ page.
One issue some veterans run into is work credits. For some disabled veterans who were injured when they were very young, this can be a problem. For most veterans, the fact that they collect VA benefits will not affect SSDI payments. However, there are certain types of benefits and household income level requirements that can play a role in how much compensation a beneficiary receives.
Because the SSDI process can be confusing, we suggest contacting a Tulsa Social Security Disability attorney. We offer free evaluations of your case, and you may reach us by phone at (918) 265-1404. Contact us today.
Troutman & Troutman, P.C. – Tulsa Social Security Disability lawyers
