Are Veterans Disability Benefits different from Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits, and can a veteran receive monetary benefits from both programs?
Veterans Disability Benefits and SSDI are two separate programs, each with its own application process and governing agency. Veterans Disability Benefits are managed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), while SSDI is administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Receiving benefits from one program does not impact eligibility or payment amounts in the other. However, being awarded disability benefits in either program certainly helps strengthen the argument for the other. Additionally, the criteria and procedures for filing claims differ between the two programs. To clarify, this article discusses Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which is distinct from Supplemental Security Income (SSI). 
Veterans Disability Benefits
Veterans Disability Benefits are tax-free monthly payments, determined by the severity of the disability, which is rated in 10% increments from 0% to 100%. Additional compensation is sometimes considered for those with special circumstances. Partial payments can be made to veterans, unlike SSDI Benefits.
Eligibility
Like SSDI claims, claimants must provide substantial evidence of a mental or physical disability. However, applicants for Veterans Disability Benefits must also prove that their disabilities are connected to military service and that the veteran was honorably discharged.
Another key difference is that recipients of Veterans Disability Benefits typically do not have to prove an inability to engage in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) to be eligible, which is a requirement for SSDI Benefits.
Condition Requirements
The condition must affect the person’s mind or body, and the individual must have served in the military. Additionally, the condition must have developed during their service, been aggravated by their time in service, or emerged after their service ended.
Discharge Status
The person must have been discharged no less than honorably.
Evidence
Both military service documentation and medical records are required as evidence for these claims. You will need substantial information from VA medical records and hospital records that demonstrate a history of your condition. While exclusive treatment by a VA provider is not required, it is crucial to have a singular coordinated treatment plan developed collaboratively by both private and VA medical professionals. In some cases, there are additional forms you may need to file for your claim.
Application Process
The best way to apply for Veterans Disability Benefits is to submit your application online. You can also mail in applications or visit your local regional VA office. You will need to provide discharge or separation papers, medical evidence, and dependency records (marriage or children’s birth certificates).
If your claim is denied, there are three options to continue your case: Supplemental Claim, Higher-Level Review, or Board Appeal. If you disagree with a decision made by your VA medical team, you can request a Clinical Appeal, in which other medical professionals will review the decision. Whether you are just starting your application or dealing with a denial and preparing to appeal, Nyman Turkish can help you get the benefits you deserve. We are here to help you.
SSDI Benefits
Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits provide financial assistance to individuals unable to work due to a disability. These monthly payments are calculated based on the individual’s past earnings.
Eligibility
The disability must prevent the individual from engaging in SGA, and the individual must have worked and paid Social Security Disability taxes for at least five out of the last 10 years. There must be substantial medical evidence supporting the claim that the individual is unable to work due to their condition(s).
Condition Requirements
According to the SSA, a disability is defined as the inability to participate in SGA due to a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that is expected to result in death or has lasted, or is expected to last, for at least 12 consecutive months. More information about how the SSA defines a disability is available on their website.
Evidence
Providing sufficient medical evidence is crucial for the success of an SSDI claim. Medical records, treatment plans, and doctors’ notes must document the ongoing severity of the claimant’s condition and demonstrate that the person is unable to perform any job in the national economy.
Application Process
The initial application involves submitting both medical and work history. It is common for the SSA to review an initial application and request additional documentation or medical evaluations. If your claim is denied, there are several levels of appeal.
To apply for SSDI Benefits, you can apply online or by mail. However, the paperwork is extensive and complex. The team at Nyman Turkish specializes in the application process and is here to make it as smooth as possible.
Know your Rights
If you have served in the military and have a service-related physical or mental condition, you may qualify for Veterans Disability Benefits. These benefits are different from Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and veterans can often receive financial support from both programs simultaneously.
If you need assistance with Veterans Disability Benefits or SSDI Benefits, our Firm will fight to get you the benefits you deserve. We offer a no-fee guarantee—we don’t receive any payment unless we win your case. Call us at 877-529-4773 or visit our website for a FREE case evaluation.