Veterans with disabilities connected to their service may qualify for disability benefits depending on the severity of their disability. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will assign a rating, ranging from 0 percent to 100 percent, to veterans applying for benefits based on how much the disability impacts the veteran’s ability to work. Veterans who receive VA benefits may still be entitled to Social Security disability benefits, and those with a VA compensation rating of 100 percent Permanent and Total (P&T) may be entitled to expedited Social Security disability benefits.
In order for a veteran to receive Social Security disability benefits, he or she must meet the SSA’s disability criteria. Having a VA compensation rating of 100 percent P&T does not necessarily mean that you will qualify for SSD benefits. According to SSA, a veteran’s disability or condition must be severe enough to prevent him or her from doing substantial work and expected to last a minimum of one year or result in death.
The SSA will often expedite the application process for veterans with a 100 percent P&T rating. To ensure your claim for SSD benefits is expedited, you will need to identify yourself as a veteran with a 100 percent P&T rating on your application. You will also need to verify your rating by providing the SSA with your VA notification letter.
Even if your veterans’ disability claim is expedited, the time it takes to receive a decision from the SSA will depend on your medical condition, how quickly the SSA receives medical evidence relating to your condition, and whether you need further medical examination for additional evidence. For further assistance with filing your disability application, contact a disability benefits attorney in your area as soon as possible.
