If I’m Receiving VA Benefits, Can I Get Social Security Benefits?

If you are a disabled veteran currently receiving VA benefits and are disabled and unable to work in any capacity, you may also qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.

If I Receive VA Benefits, Do I Automatically Qualify for Social Security Benefits?

The first thing to note is that your eligibility for VA benefits does not automatically qualify you for Social Security disability benefits. The Social Security and VA programs are different, as are the criteria and processes. Clients are often shocked to learn that they are considered 100% disabled by the VA, but not by Social Security.

To be found disabled under the Social Security Administration rules, you must be unable to engage in substantial gainful activity and your medical conditions must have lasted (or be expected to last) at least one year, or result in death. So, while the VA follows a “ratings system” to determine varying levels of disability, with Social Security, you are either considered “disabled” or “not disabled,” there is no in-between.

However, if you are rated 100% Permanent and Total by the VA, you can receive expedited processing in your application for Social Security disability benefits.

The Financial Impact of Receiving Both VA Benefits and Social Security Benefits

As alluded to above, there are two different Social Security disability programs (SSDI and SSI). Your receipt of VA benefits will have no impact on your entitlement to SSDI benefits.

However, SSI benefits are considered need-based, and therefore, any VA benefits you receive will count towards your monthly income and will reduce your potential SSI award. If you receive more than $794 a month in VA disability benefits, you will likely not be eligible for any SSI payments.

Jacksonville Social Security Disability Attorney

If you are currently receiving VA benefits and are disabled and unable to work in any capacity due to your physical condition, contact a local attorney today. An attorney can help answer your questions or help you apply for disability.