Navigating the SSD Application Process for Veterans

Posted May 26, 2023 by Premier Disability Services, LLC®

Transitioning from military service to civilian life brings its own unique hurdles, one of which might be securing Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. If you’re a veteran, you’re already well-practiced in tackling complex procedures, and getting to grips with the SSD application process is another mission that’s yours to embark upon. Here’s a simplified walk-through of the steps you’ll need to keep in mind during this journey.

Step 1: Understanding the Dual Eligibility

Your VA benefits might already be in place due to a disability linked to your service. However, SSD benefits play by a different rulebook. Here, the focus is not just whether your disability is service-related, but also whether it stops you from taking up any sort of work, not just the specific job you did before your disability.

Step 2: Making Use of the Wounded Warrior Program

The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes the sacrifices made by veterans. To show this, they’ve set up the Wounded Warriors program. This program speeds up the process of reviewing disability claims for service members who got disabled while on active duty on or after October 1, 2001.

Step 3: Gathering Essential Documentation

Just as you’d prepare for a military operation, applying for SSD benefits also needs the right kind of preparation – in this case, paperwork. You’ll need to collect things like medical records and work history, and sometimes, letters from friends, family, or coworkers that tell about how your disability affects your daily life.

Step 4: Coordinating With VA Rating

Your VA disability rating can serve as a significant piece of evidence for your SSD application. A high rating from the VA, particularly a 70% rating or higher, can mean a lot to the SSA. However, it’s vital to remember that a 100% VA rating doesn’t automatically mean you get SSD benefits. Each system assesses disability differently – VA assigns a degree of disability, while SSA views the disability based on if they can perform a similar type of work as they did prior to their disability. 

Step 5: Knowing Your Right to Appeal

Even the best strategy can encounter setbacks, and denials are part of the SSD application process. Remember, you have the right to appeal if your SSD application is rejected. This could involve asking for reconsideration, a hearing before a judge, a review by an Appeals Council, and even a review in Federal Court.

.Embarking on the journey to secure Social Security Disability benefits as a veteran means you’re standing at the crossroads of military service and civilian disability requirements. While it may feel overwhelming, take heart: this path has been tread before, and with a little guidance, you can navigate this process and secure the benefits you’re entitled to.