Filing for SSDI Benefits. SSDI requires that your medical conditions prevent you from working for at least 12 months. SSDI is available to individuals who have worked a certain number of years and paid into the Social Security system. Under SSDI,
You must be between the ages of 18 and 65 years old and
You have earned a certain amount of “work credits.”
Work credits
Each year that you work and pay into Social Security, you earn work credits. Generally need to earn 20 work credits to meet the requirements for SSDI. However, if you are younger, you may meet the requirements for SSDI with fewer credits. Additionally, you must have worked recently for SSDI. Your coverage for SSDI benefits ends after a certain amount of time from when you stopped working. Generally, your date last insured (DLI) for coverage ends five years after you stopped working.
Application process
The initial SSDI application requires a lot of paperwork. You must provide specific information. An experienced disability advocate can help you prepare filing your disability claim. Your chances improve when you give Social Security complete information. Missing information can often lead to a denial. Call Now for Help Filing for SSDI Benefits.
What information is necessary for filing SSDI?
Most importantly, you must provide your doctors’ information and work history. You should provide all of the doctors you’ve seen since you stopped working or became unable to work. Medical information should also include any emergency room visits or hospital admissions. Additionally, you must provide your work history. Social Security only asks for jobs you’ve done in the last 15 years.
Filing for SSDI Benefits: Medical review
Once Social Security processes your application, they will make a medical decision. First, Social Security considers whether your conditions fall under their listing of impairments known as the “Blue Book.” Generally, the Blue Book requirements are the most severe level of disability. Most conditions will not meet these conditions. However, Social Security considers your residual functional capacity (RFC) if you don’t meet the listings. Call Now for Help Filing for SSDI Benefits.
Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)
Your RFC includes both physical and mental limitations. Social Security needs to understand how your conditions impact your function. They review your medical records to determine your RFC. They also consider any opinions from your doctors. If your doctor fills out an RFC form, it should be very detailed. An RFC form should include:
Your symptoms and conditions
Treatment and medications
Medication side effects
How your conditions impact your physical activities such as sitting, standing, walking, lifting and carrying
How your conditions impact your mental activities such as understanding and remembering information, getting along with others and maintaining attention and concentration
Filing for SSDI: medical evidence
Your medical evidence should include records only for the period of time that you became disabled and unable to work. Your treatment should also be continuous and ongoing. Medical evidence should include:
Firstly, Treatment notes and physical examinations
Secondly, Imaging such as MRIs, x-rays, CT scans or nerve testing
Thirdly, Blood work or biopsy results
Fourthly, Pulmonary tests
Lastly, Mental health records
Does my age matter when filing for SSDI?
Social Security uses a chart called the Medical-Vocational guidelines to evaluate your disability claim. These guidelines called the “grid rules” make it easier for older people to win their case. Social Security understands that it may be harder for older people to do new or different work. Typically, if you are over the age of 50, the grid rules can allow Social Security to approve your case even if you can do other work. The rules are even more favorable if you are over age 55. Call Now for Help Filing for SSDI Benefits
Example 1: Filing for SSDI over age 50
For example, a 53 year old woman applied for disability due to degenerative joint disease in her knee and anxiety. She previously worked as a cashier. She was unable to stand for long periods. Her anxiety also started to interfere with her ability to be around other people. She also had trouble concentrating. Social Security found that she could not do her past work as a cashier. They also found that she could not do any other standing jobs. She could only do simple and routine tasks. The grid rules allowed Social Security to approve her case. Call Now for Help Filing for SSDI Benefits.
Example 2: Filing for SSDI over age 55
In another example, a 58 year old man applied for disability due to coronary artery disease and high blood pressure. He previously worked installing cable. His job required lifting more than 50 pounds. Since Social Security found that he could not return to his past work, he was approved for disability benefits. Call Now for Help Filing for SSDI Benefits.
Filing for SSDI: what if my application is denied?
Social Security often denies claims. You should appeal any denials. Re-filing a new application doesn’t help getting approved for benefits. It only can delay the appeals process. Frequently, Social Security denies you for the same reasons. Your changes for getting approved improve when you appeal an unfavorable decision. In fact, most cases have the best chance for approval at the hearing level. Call Now for Help Filing for SSDI Benefits.
Disability Help Group, Call Now for a Free Case Review, 800-700-0652
Make sure you start your claim the right way and apply for all the benefits you deserve. Contact us now for a free consultation. Call Now for Help Filing for SSDI Benefits.
Can a Veteran Receive Both VA and Social Security Benefits? Veterans can qualify for both VA and Social Security benefits. Frequently, veterans apply for both VA and Social Security benefits. However, VA and Social Security benefits have different requirements.
VA benefits for veterans
VA benefits or service-connected disability, have specific requirements. You must show that your disabling condition was “incurred or aggravated by your military service.” You will not qualify for VA benefits if you have a dishonorable discharge. You can receive partial disability benefits from the VA. VA disability compensation rates range from 10-100%, in 10% increments.
Social Security benefits
Social Security has two types of benefits, disability insurance benefits (SSDI) and supplemental security income benefits (SSI). Under SSDI, you must have worked and earned at least 20 work credits. Generally, this means you must have worked at least 5 out of the last 10 years. Under SSI, you do not need any work credits. However, you must meet certain financial requirements. You must show that your medical conditions keep you from working for at least 12 months. Unlike VA benefits, Social Security doesn’t offer partial disability.
Applying for both VA and Social Security benefits
If you get approved for one benefit, it doesn’t increase your chances for getting approved for the other. Social Security and the VA follow different rules. However, Social Security considers medical evidence from the VA. Similarly, the VA considers your Social Security records.
Expedited processing for veterans
Fortunately, Social Security can fast-track certain cases for veterans. Social Security expedites processing for veterans with a 100% VA rating. You should identify as a “Veteran rated 100% P&T” when filing your application. You should also include your VA rating notification letter. Additionally, Social Security fast-tracks case for Wounded Warriors. You should tell Social Security that your injuries happened while on active duty.
Application process for VA benefits
Both the VA and Social Security reviews medical records. The VA uses military doctors and other health personnel to evaluate your disability claim. The VA may ask you to attend a claim exam, known as a C&P exam. This exam helps the VA rate your disability. Additionally, the VA assigns a disabling rate to each of your conditions. These rates determine your Total Combined VA disability rating. The VA uses this rating to figure out the amount of your benefits.
Application process for Social Security benefits
Unlike the VA, Social Security doesn’t rate your conditions separately. Social Security looks at how the combination of your conditions impacts your functioning. First, they consider if any of your conditions meet certain conditions under their listing of impairments, known as the “Blue Book”. Most conditions will not meet these strict requirements. Next, Social Security considers your residual functional capacity or RFC. Your RFC includes both physical and mental limitations. If Social Security determines that your conditions keep you from working, they will approve your disability claim. Like the VA, Social Security may ask you to attend a medical exam to help evaluate your claim.
Disabled veterans and your age
Social Security has special disability rules the older you are. They look at a chart known as the Medical-Vocational guidelines to evaluate your claim called the “grid rules.” The grid rules make it easier for older people to win their case. Social Security considers your age, education and work background. The older you are, the easier it can be to win your case.
How much can I get from VA and Social Security benefits?
As discussed, the VA calculates your payments based on your Total Combined VA disability rating. Social Security uses a complicated formula based on the amount of earnings you paid taxes on. Therefore, everyone’s amount is different. VA benefits will not affect your SSDI payments. In other words, you can receive both payments in full. Unfortunately, any VA benefits will reduce your SSI payments.
VA and Social Security medical benefits
Veterans receiving VA disability automatically receive TRICARE benefits, which cover health costs found “medically necessary” for your condition. SSDI recipients qualify for Medicare benefits which start two years after Social Security finds you disabled. Medicare covers a variety of medical costs, usually regardless of a specific condition. SSI recipients receive Medicaid benefits. If you receive both TRICARE and Medicare, Medicare becomes your primary insurance. However, if you receive both TRICARE and Medicaid, TRICARE becomes your primary insurance.
Can a veteran work and receive both VA and Social Security benefits?
If you are working, you may not qualify for Social Security disability. Social Security considers work earnings over a certain amount “substantial gainful activity” or SGA and if you earn over the SGA limit, you will not qualify for Social Security disability. For 2021, SGA is earnings $1,310 per month or more (before taxes). You can still qualify for Social Security disability benefits if you earn less than SGA. However, any work may make it harder for Social Security to approve your claim. Unlike Social Security, veterans can work while receiving VA disability benefits unless you receive Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU.)
Disability Help Group, Call Now for a Free Case Review, 800-700-0652
Make sure you start your claim the right way and apply for all the benefits you deserve. Contact us now for a free consultation.
Disabled veterans can receive both VA and SSDI benefits. In fact, it is common for veterans to apply for both SSDI and VA disability benefits. However, some veterans receive VA disability benefits before applying for SSDI.
What is SSDI?
Social Security disability insurance benefits or SSDI require that you have worked and earned enough work credits. You receive work credits each year that you work and pay taxes. Generally, you need to earn a total of 20 work credits to qualify for SSDI. Additionally, you must meet a recent work test. Like other insurance programs, SSDI coverage ends after a certain amount of time from when you stop working. SSDI also requires that your medical conditions keep you from working for at least 12 months. Call us now if you are a Veteran and Want to Receive both VA and SSDI.
What is the difference between VA and SSDI?
Social Security doesn’t offer partial disability benefits. Your medical conditions must prevent you from working on a full-time basis. Unlike SSDI, VA disability benefits don’t require total disability. Veterans receive compensation rates based on the degree of your disability. The compensation rates range from 10-100%, in 10% increments. Call us now if you are a Veteran and Want to Receive both VA and SSDI.
SSDI expedited processing for veterans to receive both VA and SSDI.
Veterans may qualify for expedited processing for Social Security disability claims. You may receive expedited processing under:
100% Permanent and Total Veterans Initiative – you should identify yourself as a “Veteran rated 100% P&T” when filing your SSDI or SSI application. You also should provide the VA rating notification letter to Social Security
Wounded Warriors – if you received disabling mental or physical health injuries while on active duty on or after October 1, 2001, you are eligible for SSDI or SSI expedited application processing. You don’t need to have been injured during combat operations. You should tell Social Security that your injury occurred while on active duty.
What are the medical requirements for SSDI?
First, Social Security considers whether your medical conditions fall under their listing of impairments, known as the Blue Book. Typically, the Blue Book requires that your medical conditions meet very specific requirements. If you don’t meet the listings, Social Security considers your residual functional capacity or RFC. An RFC includes both physical and mental limitations. Social Security looks at your medical evidence to determine your RFC. They can also consider the opinions of your doctors. Call us now if you are a Veteran and Want to Receive both VA and SSDI.
What medical evidence do veterans need for SSDI?
Your medical evidence should include records only for the period of time that you became disabled and unable to work. Your treatment should also be continuous and ongoing. The VA and Department of Defense (DOD) share medical records electronically with Social Security. Social Security also considers any treatment veterans receive from civilian doctors. Medical evidence can include:
Treatment notes and physical examinations
Imaging such as MRIs, x-rays, CT scans or nerve testing
Blood work or biopsy results
Pulmonary tests
Mental health records
SSDI “Grid Rules”
Social Security has special disability rules the older you are. They look at a chart known as the Medical-Vocational guidelines to evaluate your claim called the “grid rules.” The grid rules make it easier for older people to win their case. Social Security considers your age, education and work background. The older you are, the easier it can be to win your case. Call us now if you are a Veteran and Want to Receive both VA and SSDI.
Example 1: applying the grid rules for veterans over age 50
For example, John, a 53 year old veteran, applied for disability due to arthritis in his knees. John underwent a total knee replacement but continued to have pain and swelling in both knees. He previously worked in a factory. John received most of his treatment at the VA hospital. His medical records included MRIs and x-rays of his knees. His doctors also documented that he required the use of a cane due to his symptoms. Social Security found that he could not return to work in the factory. Since he is over the age of 50, the grid rules allow Social Security to approve his claim.
Example 2: applying the grid rules for veterans over age 55
As another example, Chris, a 58 year old veteran, applied for disability due to a right shoulder impairment and degenerative disc disease in his spine. Chris previously worked as a truck driver. However, he was unable to load and unload the trucks due to his pain symptoms. Chris received treatment from both the VA hospital and civilian doctors. His medical records documented his pain symptoms and limited motion in his shoulder and back. Social Security found that he could not return to work as a truck driver. Since Chris is over the age of 55 and he could not return to his past work, Social Security approved his claim.
Working disabled veterans can receive both VA and SSDI.
If you are currently working, you may not qualify for SSDI. Social Security considers work earnings over a certain amount “substantial gainful activity” or SGA. If you earn over the SGA limit, you will not qualify for SSDI. In 2020, earnings S1, 260 per month or (before taxes) are considered SGA. Although, if you are working part-time and earning less than SGA, you may still qualify for SSDI. However, any work may make it harder for Social Security to approve your claim. Call us now if you are a Veteran and Want to Receive both VA and SSDI
Does active duty affect eligibility for SSDI?
Active duty status or receipt of military pay doesn’t necessarily keep you from receiving SSDI. Social Security evaluates your work activity to figure out your eligibility. You can apply while in a rehabilitation program or attending outpatient programs. It doesn’t matter whether your treatment is in a VA hospital or civilian facility. If you are on limited duty or working in a designated therapy program, you should definitely apply for SSDI.
Does getting approved for Veterans VA benefits help receive SSDI?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. The VA and Social Security have completely separate processes and requirements for approving claims. However, Social Security will consider any evidence the VA used when looking at your claim. Similarly, the VA is required to consider Social Security records. Call us now if you are a Veteran and Want to Receive both VA and SSDI
Disability Help Group, Call Now for a Free Case Review, 800-800-3332
Make sure you start your claim the right way and apply for all the benefits you deserve. Contact us now for a free consultation.
Related Articles to veterans can receive both VA and SSDI.
What is the Difference between SSDI and VA Disability? SSDI and VA disability benefits are both government programs that help disabled individuals receive benefits. Both programs have separate application processes. They also have different requirements for determining disability.
SSDI vs. VA Disability: general requirements
VA disability benefits provide payments only to US veterans. The VA does not require any financial contributions. Additionally, the VA doesn’t require you to have worked within the last 5 or 10 years. Unlike VA disability, you don’t need to be a veteran to apply for SSDI. SSDI does require that you meet certain medical and non-medical requirements.
SSDI does require that you worked and earned enough work credits. Generally, you need a total of 20 work credits to qualify for SSDI. Typically, you need to have worked 5 out of the last 10 years. However, if you are younger, you may qualify for SSDI with fewer credits.
SSDI disability defined
SSDI requires that you have a medical condition that prevents you from working. Your condition must keep you from working for at least 12 months. Unlike VA disability benefits, SSDI does not need your disability to be connected to military service. They also don’t consider your discharge status.
VA disability defined
VA disability benefits, also known as service-connected disability, have specific requirements. You must show that your disabling condition was “incurred or aggravated by your military service.” You must not have a dishonorable discharge. You must also submit a formal claim by completing an “Application for Disability Compensation and Related Compensation Benefits” or VA Form 21-526EZ. Starting to understand the difference between SSDI and VA disability?
SSDI vs. VA Disability: percentage of disability
SSDI doesn’t distinguish between partial or total disability. Therefore, you must show that your medical conditions keep you from working in any job. Social Security figures out your monthly payment based on what you paid into Social Security. Even so, VA disability benefits don’t require total disability. The VA awards benefits based in proportion to their percentage of disability. Compensation rates range from 10%-100%, in 10% increments. Therefore, SSDI does not have percentages and VA disability does.
SSDI application process
Firstly, Social Security considers whether your medical conditions fall under their listing of impairments, known as the Blue Book. Secondly, the Blue Book requires that your medical conditions meet very specific requirements. Thirdly, if you don’t meet the listings, Social Security considers your residual functional capacity or RFC. An RFC includes both physical and mental limitations.
Social Security looks at your medical evidence to determine your RFC. They can also consider the opinions of your doctors. Social Security may also ask you to attend an appointment with one of their doctors. Social Security will schedule an exam when they need more information about your conditions.
VA disability application process
Veterans go through a VA-directed medical review. The VA uses military doctors and other health personnel to evaluate veterans for their disability. Similar to SSDI, the VA may ask you to attend a VA claim exam, known as a C&P exam. The exam will help the VA rate your disability. The VA assigns a disable rating to each of your conditions. This determines your Total Combined VA Disability Rating. The Total Combined VA Disability Rating determines the amount of your benefits.
SSDI: your age matters
Social Security has special disability rules the older you are. They look at a chart known as the Medical-Vocational guidelines to evaluate your claim called the “grid rules.” The grid rules make it easier for older people to win their case. Social Security considers your age, education and work background. The older you are, the easier it can be to win your case. While SSDI considers your age, VA disability does not consider your age.
Example 1: applying the grid rules for SSDI
For example, James, a 56 year old veteran, applied for disability due to knee, shoulder and neck pain. He previously worked as truck driver, receives disability compensation related to a knee injury. He has trouble standing and walking, needs a cane. His medical records include MRIs and x-rays of his knees, shoulder and neck documenting his impairments. His doctors have also documented that he has pain and limited motion of his knees and shoulder. Social Security found that he could not return to work as a truck driver. Since he is over the age of 55, the grid rules allow Social Security to approve his claim.
SSDI and VA disability application wait time
Unfortunately, both VA disability and SSDI can take time to process before issuing a decision. VA disability applications can take anywhere from a few months to 2-3 years for a decision. SSDI has several levels of the claims process. Firstly, it may take 4-6 months to receive an initial decision. Secondly, if Social Security denies your claim, you file an appeal for reconsideration, Reconsideration can take 3-5 months. Thirdly, you can file a request for hearing, where it can take several months for your case to be scheduled. Social Security also has additional appeals if your case is denied at hearing.
SSDI expedited processing for Veterans
Veterans may qualify for faster processing for SSDI claims. You may receive expedited processing if you have a 100% Permanent and Total disability rating. Additionally, Social Security fast-tracks claims for Wounded Warriors. It include veterans who received disabling mental or physical health injuries while on active duty after October 1, 2001.
SSDI vs. VA disability: medical insurance
SSDI recipients receive Medicare. Medicare benefits start two years after Social Security finds you disabled. Medicare covers a variety of medical costs, usually regardless of condition. Though, it does not always cover all primary medical care. You may need an additional policy to supplement your benefits.
Veterans receiving VA disability are automatically covered by TRICARE benefits. TRICARE covers health costs deemed “medically necessary” for your condition. If you receive both SSDI and VA disability, Medicare becomes your primary insurance and TRICARE becomes your secondary insurance.
Call Now for a Free Case Review, 800-700-0652
Make sure you start your SSDI and VA disability claim the right way and apply for all the benefits you deserve. Contact us now for a free consultation.
Can a Disabled Veteran Receive SSDI? Disabled veterans can receive SSDI benefits. An award of VA disability benefits won’t prevent you from also receiving SSDI benefits. However, there are differences between qualifying for these types of benefits.
Disabled Veterans: SSDI vs. VA disability benefits
SSDI requires that your medical conditions prevent you from working for at least 12 months. SSDI doesn’t distinguish between partial or total disability. Unlike SSDI, VA disability benefits don’t require total disability. In fact, most veterans who receive VA compensation do not receive a total disability rating.
How do disabled veterans qualify for SSDI?
To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked a certain number of years and earned enough work credits. You receive work credits each year that you work and pay taxes. At most, you can earn four work credits per year. Generally, you need a total of 20 work credits to qualify for SSDI. However, there are some age exceptions. If you are younger, you may qualify for SSDI with fewer credits.
SSDI financial requirements for disabled veterans
As mentioned, SSDI requires that you earn a certain amount of work credits to qualify. Therefore, there are no limits to the amount of assets, cash or other resources you own. For example, VA disability benefits will not keep you from receiving SSDI benefits. Additionally, they will not reduce your SSDI benefits.
Working disabled veterans
Since Social Security defines disability as the inability to work, if you are working, you may not qualify for SSDI. Social Security considers work earnings over a certain amount “substantial gainful activity” or SGA. If you earn over the SGA limit, you will not qualify for SSDI. In 2020, earnings S1, 260 per month or (before taxes) are considered SGA. If you are working part-time and earning less than SGA, you may still qualify for SSDI. However, any work may make it harder for Social Security to approve your claim.
Medical requirements for disabled veterans
First, Social Security considers whether your medical conditions fall under their listing of impairments, known as the Blue Book. Typically, the Blue Book requires that your medical conditions meet very specific requirements. If you don’t meet the listings, Social Security considers your residual functional capacity or RFC. An RFC includes both physical and mental limitations. Social Security looks at your medical evidence to determine your RFC. They can also consider the opinions of your doctors.
Medical evidence for disabled veterans
Your medical evidence should include records only for the period of time that you became disabled and unable to work. Your treatment should also be continuous and ongoing. The VA and Department of Defense (DOD) share medical records electronically with Social Security. Medical evidence can include:
Treatment notes and physical examinations
Imaging such as MRIs, x-rays, CT scans or nerve testing
Blood work or biopsy results
Pulmonary tests
Mental health records
Disabled veterans and your age
Social Security has special disability rules the older you are. They look at a chart known as the Medical-Vocational guidelines to evaluate your claim called the “grid rules.” The grid rules make it easier for older people to win their case. Social Security considers your age, education and work background. The older you are, the easier it can be to win your case.
Example 1: applying the grid rules for disabled veterans
For example, Michael, a 57 year veteran, applied for disability due to back pain. He previously worked as janitor, receives disability compensation related to a back injury. He has trouble standing and walking, needs a cane. His medical records include MRIs and x-rays of his back documenting his impairment. His doctors have also documented that he has pain and limited motion of his back. Social Security found that he could not return to work as a janitor. Since he is over the age of 55, the grid rules allow Social Security to approve his claim.
Does my VA approval help improve my chances receiving SSDI?
Generally, your VA approval will not help you get SSDI. Social Security will consider any evidence that the VA used when making their decision. Social Security may also use VA or DOD evidence to expedite SSDI claims for Wounded Warriors or veterans with a 100% disability compensation rating. Similarly, the VA may not give Social Security’s decision much weight. Usually, Social Security’s decision can be unclear whether the disability is based on service-connected or non-service disability. However, the VA is required to consider your Social Security records.
Does active duty affect eligibility for SSDI?
Active duty status or receipt of military pay doesn’t necessarily prevent you from receiving SSDI. Since you can’t receive SSDI if you are engaging in SGA, Social Security evaluates your work activity to figure out your eligibility. You can apply while in a rehabilitation program or attending outpatient programs regardless of whether your treatment is in a VA hospital or civilian facility. If you are on limited duty or working in a designated therapy program, you should definitely apply for SSDI.
Disability Help Group, Call Now for a Free Case Review, 800-700-0652
Make sure you start your claim the right way and apply for all the benefits you deserve. Contact us now for a free consultation.
