Did you know veterans can get both VA and SSDI benefits at the same time?
Yep, it’s true.
And, while veterans can qualify for SSDI benefits regardless of their VA rating, it’s generally easier (and faster) to prove a disability to the SSA with a 100% VA disability rating.
Why?
Because a 100 percent VA rating indicates the highest level of disability, with some ratings deemed “permanent” and “total,” which means the disability is unlikely to improve over time and the disability makes it impossible for an average person to maintain a substantially gainful occupation.
In addition, disabled veterans with a 100% VA rating are also eligible for expedited processing of SSDI benefits.
Okay, let’s explore VA disability compensation vs. SSDI in more detail, along with tips and strategies to get your SSDI claim approved faster.
Table of Contents
Summary of Key Points
- Concurrent Benefits: Veterans can receive both VA disability benefits and SSDI benefits simultaneously without one affecting the other.
- Eligibility for SSDI: Veterans can qualify for SSDI benefits regardless of their VA rating, but having a 100% VA disability rating generally makes it easier and faster to prove disability to the SSA.
- Expedited Processing: Veterans with a 100% Permanent and Total (P&T) VA rating are eligible for expedited processing of SSDI claims through programs like the SSA’s Wounded Warrior Program.
Can I Get Both VA and SSDI Benefits?
Yes, you can receive both VA disability benefits and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits concurrently.
These two programs have separate eligibility criteria and benefit structures, so receiving one does not preclude you from receiving the other.
Here are some key points to remember:
Basic Eligibility Criteria
- VA Disability Benefits: Available to veterans with disabilities connected to their military service or another service-connected disability. The benefits are based on the severity of the disability, rated on a scale from 0% to 100%.
- SSDI Benefits: These are available to individuals (including veterans) who have a qualifying disability and sufficient work credits. The disability must prevent substantial gainful activity and be expected to last at least one year or result in death.
Concurrent Receipt of VA Disability and SSDI Benefits
Yes, you can receive both VA disability compensation and SSDI benefits at the same time without one affecting the other.
VA disability benefits are not based on your income while SSDI is based on your work history and disability.
Application Process
You need to apply separately for each benefit.
The VA handles VA disability benefits, while the SSA handles SSDI benefits.
Ensure you provide all necessary documentation and medical evidence to support your claims.
Apply online for VA disability benefits here and SSDI benefits here.
Expedited Processing of SSDI for 100% Disabled Veterans
Veterans with a 100% Permanent and Total (P&T) VA disability rating can have their SSDI claims expedited through the SSA’s Wounded Warrior Program or the Expedited Processing of Veteran’s 100% Disability Claims Program for SSDI.
Tips to Get SSDI for Veterans
Here are some tips for disabled veterans when applying for SSDI benefits:
Understand the SSDI Basic Eligibility Criteria
- Ensure your disability meets the SSA’s definition, meaning it prevents substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
- Verify you have enough work credits. Typically, you need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years ending with the year you become disabled.
Use Your 100% P&T VA Disability Rating
- Veterans with a 100% Permanent and Total (P&T) disability rating can have their SSDI claims expedited. Make sure to indicate your P&T status when applying.
- Provide your VA disability rating decision and medical records to the SSA as supporting documentation.
Gather Comprehensive Medical Documentation
- Collect detailed medical records from both VA and civilian doctors. Include documentation of your diagnosis, treatment history, and how your condition limits your ability to work.
- Obtain statements from your healthcare providers detailing your physical and mental limitations. It’s helpful to have your treating physician or other specialist write a letter explaining how your disability meets the SSA’s disability definition.
Maintain Detailed Personal Records
- Keep a journal of your symptoms, treatments, and the impact on your daily life. Include specific examples of how your disability affects your ability to perform work-related tasks.
- Document all interactions with healthcare providers, including dates of appointments, medications prescribed, and any recommendations made.
Submit a Complete and Accurate Application
- Ensure your SSDI application is thoroughly and accurately completed. Missing or incorrect information can delay processing or lead to a denial.
- Use the SSA’s online application portal for convenience and to expedite the submission process.
Prepare for the Disability Determination Services (DDS) Evaluation
- Be ready to provide detailed information during the DDS evaluation, which may include answering questions about your medical history, work history, and daily activities.
- Be honest and thorough in your responses, as the DDS uses this evaluation to make a determination on your eligibility.
Follow Up Regularly
- After submitting your application, follow up with the SSA periodically to check the status of your claim. Ensure all required documents have been received and inquire about any additional information needed.
- Promptly respond to any requests from the SSA for further information or clarification.
Comparison Chart: VA Disability Benefits vs SSDI Benefits
| Criteria | VA Disability Benefits | SSDI Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Administering Agency | Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) | Social Security Administration (SSA) |
| Eligibility | Veterans with disabilities incurred or aggravated by military service | Individuals with a qualifying disability and sufficient work credits |
| Service Connection Requirement | Yes | No |
| Work Credits Required | No | Yes, generally 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years |
| Disability Definition | Disability was caused or made worse by military service or by another service-connected disability | Disability that prevents substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death |
| Disability Rating | Rated on a scale from 0% to 100% in 10% increments | All or nothing; must meet SSA’s definition of disability |
| Income Impact | Generally, income does not affect benefits (unless receiving Individual Unemployability) | Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) income limits apply |
| Benefit Calculation | Based on the severity of the disability | Based on average indexed monthly earnings (AIME) from work history |
| Benefit Amounts | Varies depending on disability rating; veteran alone with a 10% rating is $171.23/month; veteran alone with a 100% rating is $3,737.85/month; amount can exceed $4,500 per month with eligible dependents | Average monthly payment between $1,300 and $1,600; maximum monthly payment of $3,822 in 2024 |
| Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA) Each Year | Yes | Yes |
| Taxability | Tax-free at federal and state levels | Taxable if combined income exceeds certain thresholds |
| Survivor Benefits | Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) available for survivors | Survivors may be eligible for Social Security survivor benefits |
| Concurrent Benefits | Can receive both VA disability and SSDI benefits concurrently | Can receive both VA disability and SSDI benefits concurrently |
| Medical Re-Evaluations | Periodic re-evaluations may be required | Periodic reviews may be required to determine continuing eligibility |
| Application Process | Apply through the VA with required medical and service records | Apply through the SSA, provide medical records, and demonstrate work history |
| Processing Time | Average 150 calendar days from start to finish; can be expedited for certain conditions | Several months; can be expedited for veterans with a 100% Permanent & Total (P&T) rating or Wounded Warriors |
| Appeal Process | Yes, veterans can appeal VA decisions | Yes, applicants can appeal SSA decisions |
| Additional Benefits | Access to VA healthcare, VA education, vocational rehabilitation, and many other veteran benefits and services available | Medicare eligibility after 24 months of SSDI eligibility |
VA vs SSDI Benefits Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is SSDI for veterans?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a disabling condition. It is managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It is entirely separate from the VA.
2. Can veterans receive both VA disability benefits and SSDI?
Yes, veterans can receive both VA disability benefits and SSDI concurrently without one affecting the other. Each program has separate eligibility criteria.
3. What is the eligibility criteria for SSDI?
To qualify for SSDI, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA) and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Additionally, you need sufficient work credits based on your work history.
4. How do VA disability benefits differ from SSDI benefits?
VA disability benefits are based on disabilities connected to military service, rated from 0% to 100%. SSDI benefits are based on your work history and the severity of your disability as defined by the SSA. See our comparison chart above.
5. How do I apply for SSDI benefits?
You can apply for SSDI benefits online at the SSA website, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office.
6. What documents are needed to apply for SSDI?
You will need medical records, work history, and income records to support your SSDI application.
7. How does having a 100% VA disability rating affect my SSDI application?
A 100% Permanent and Total (P&T) VA disability rating can expedite your SSDI application through the SSA’s Wounded Warrior Program or the 100% P&T Veterans Initiative.
8. How long does it take to process an SSDI claim?
Processing times can vary, but it generally takes several months. Claims for veterans with a 100% P&T rating may be expedited.
9. Are SSDI benefits taxable?
SSDI benefits can be taxable if your combined income exceeds certain thresholds. For single filers, the threshold is $25,000, and for married couples filing jointly, it is $32,000.
10. Can my family receive SSDI benefits based on my disability?
Yes, family members may be eligible for benefits based on your earnings record. Typically, family members can receive up to 50% of your SSDI benefit amount, with a family limit usually between 150% to 180% of your PIA.
11. What is the maximum monthly SSDI payment in 2024?
In 2024, the maximum monthly SSDI payment is $3,822, up from $3,627 in 2023 due to a 3.2% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).
12. How does SSDI determine the benefit amount?
The SSA uses a formula based on your average indexed monthly earnings (AIME) to calculate your primary insurance amount (PIA), which determines your monthly SSDI benefit.
13. What are the work credit requirements for SSDI?
Generally, you need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years ending with the year you become disabled. Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits.
14. Can I work while receiving SSDI benefits?
Generally no. Engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) can affect your eligibility for SSDI benefits. In 2024, the monthly SGA limit for non-blind individuals is $1,470.
15. What happens if my SSDI application is denied?
If your SSDI application is denied, you can appeal the decision. The appeals process includes reconsideration, a hearing before an administrative law judge, a review by the Appeals Council, and, if necessary, a federal court review.
16. What is the SSA’s Wounded Warrior Program?
The SSA’s Wounded Warrior Program expedites disability claims for veterans who become disabled while on active military service on or after October 1, 2001.
17. How can I expedite my SSDI claim as a veteran?
To expedite your SSDI claim, identify yourself as a veteran rated 100% P&T when applying, and provide your VA notification letter verifying your rating.
18. How can I check the status of my SSDI application?
You can check the status of your SSDI application by logging into your mySocialSecurity account at the SSA website or by calling the SSA.
About the Author
Brian Reese
Brian Reese is one of the top VA disability benefits experts in the world and bestselling author of You Deserve It: The Definitive Guide to Getting the Veteran Benefits You’ve Earned (Second Edition).
Brian’s frustration with the VA claim process led him to create VA Claims Insider, which provides disabled veterans with tips, strategies, and lessons learned to win their VA disability compensation claim, faster, even if they’ve already filed, been denied, gave up, or don’t know where to start.
As the founder of VA Claims Insider and CEO of Military Disability Made Easy, he has helped serve more than 10 million military members and veterans since 2013 through free online educational resources.
He is a former active duty Air Force officer with extensive experience leading hundreds of individuals and multi-functional teams in challenging international environments, including a combat tour to Afghanistan in 2011 supporting Operation ENDURING FREEDOM.
Brian is a Distinguished Graduate of Management from the United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO, and he holds an MBA from Oklahoma State University’s Spears School of Business, Stillwater, OK, where he was a National Honor Scholar (Top 1% of Graduate School class).
