SSA and VA Disability Benefits
July 07, 2021
Why Does My VA Award Not Get Me Social Security Benefits?
This is because neither agency is bound by the decision of the other. Both Social Security and Veterans Affairs consider the other agency’s decision, but neither must adopt it. More specifically, comparing SSA benefits to VA Disability benefits is an “apples to oranges” comparison because VA issues specific ratings for various disabilities while SSA issues a single assessment.
Even if SSA approves you for SSDI or SSI, you still have to prove to VA that your condition is service-connected, which is not always the easiest thing to do. If you lack sufficient evidence, VA can call into question whether your condition arose because of an event in your service or if it is otherwise related to your military service.
Can I Get Social Security and VA Disability Benefits Simultaneously?
Yes, with caveats. If you’re receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, which are income-based and very similar to Social Security disability benefits, VA benefits can affect your eligibility or the amount of the payment you receive. Social Security Disability benefits are affected by wages but not benefits received from VA.
Can I Work and Get Benefits?
Yes. There are no income limitations on receiving VA disability benefits unless you are Totally Disabled Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU). If you have TDIU or are on Social Security disability, the income you can earn is limited to about $13,000 per year. This amount varies from year to year.
Why Was I Denied Social Security Benefits If I Can’t Do My Job?
Because whether you cannot do your prior job is a complex legal analysis that is based on more than just your inability to do the job you were doing before.
Why Was I Denied Social Security Disability If I Can’t Find a Job?
Because this is not a consideration. The question is can you work, not can you find work or can you get hired.
Questions? Contact Legal Help For Veterans, PLLC for a Free Claim Evaluation.
Legal Help For Veterans, PLLC wants to get every veteran the highest amount of disability benefits possible. Discuss your claim with us today to see if we can help get you the benefits you deserve. Fill out a Free Claim Evaluation form online or call our office at (800) 693-4800.