Even though they are both programs administered by the Federal government, Social Security Disability and Veteran’s Benefits have their own rules, criteria for being found disabled, and definitions.
Social Security disability pays individuals who are unable to work due to their medical conditions, mental or physical or a combination of the two. The condition(s) must have lasted for at least a year or result in death. There is no such thing as “partial” or “short term” disability in this program.
Veterans’ Benefits are paid out to veterans who have “service-connected” disabilities resulting from an incident that happened while they were in active military service. If you have a 100% VA disability rating OR your disability developed in relation to active service on or after 10/1/2001, your case with Social Security disability can be fast-tracked.
You CAN receive both types of benefits simultaneously in most situations.
Here is a chart comparing the basics of the two programs:
We’d love to walk you through the disability process and welcome veterans to talk to us about all your options!
