If you are a disabled veteran, you could be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance. Here is everything you need to know about submitting an application and the additional benefits you may be entitled to receive.
Those who served in the military comprise a large portion of the U.S. population and are a significant pool of recipients for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. In 2022, more than 8 million veterans received Social Security compensation. Disabled veterans are offered a unique set of SSDI standards, so it is beneficial to enlist the help of a lawyer who can provide industry knowledge and ensure you are well aware of the options available to you. Read on for the best tips from our Daytona disability lawyer in order to apply for and achieve the benefits you deserve.
Eligibility
When applying for SSDI benefits, it is important to remember that your injury or disability does not have to have been incurred by military service in order to deem you eligible for SSDI.
If you have a 100% permanent and total (P&T) disability status, meaning your medical condition will last at least a year or result in death, your claim will be marked as high priority. You may also be able to get more prompt benefits if you served in the military on or after October 1, 2001.
Former service members must have a standard total of 40 Social Security work credits, with 20 of those credits earned in the past 10 years. Eligibility for SSDI will not be affected for those who are already receiving benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). In fact, many disabled veterans are able to collect both payments.
While the legality of SSDI eligibility may appear complex, a skilled Daytona disability lawyer will be able to evaluate your documentation and medical forms to determine if you will likely be able to collect SSDI payments.
Decision Timeline
The standard timeframe for a SSDI decision rests on a few key factors:
- The nature of your disability.
- The timeliness of medical evidence received from medical professionals.
- Whether or not a medical examination is required as a piece of evidence.
Expedited Processing
If your status is 100% P&T, you must complete the following on your application in order to receive SSDI benefits:
- Identify yourself as a veteran rated 100% P&T on the phone or online application (in the “Remarks” section).
- Include your VA rating notification letter.
- Submit copies of medical records and provide any other requested documentation.
Additional SSDI Benefits
Veterans may be able to receive these additional SSDI-related benefits:
- Monthly payments for their children (under 18).
- Cost of living adjustment increases.
- Medicare.
- Retroactive pay.
Speak to your Daytona disability lawyer to determine if you may be able to receive additional SSDI benefits.
Enlist the Help of Culbertson, Jacobs & LaBoda, PLLC
If you are a disabled veteran, contact us to set up a consultation today. We can assist you with the application process and provide helpful knowledge on other benefits your status may allow. Let Culbertson, Jacobs & LaBoda, PLLC provide the assistance you need.