Social Security Disability Benefits for Wounded Warriors

Social Security Disability Benefits for Wounded Warriors

The United States owes its soldiers a debt that can never be repaid. This is true for every soldier, regardless of their work. Because of this, it is imperative that we take every possible measure to make sure our veterans and active duty service members are taken care of, even when they are sick, injured disabled. If this describes you and your situation, you may be wondering what help is available. There are actually several programs in place to help military personnel who are suffering from various physical conditions. One of these programs is Social Security Disability Benefits for Wounded Warriors.

What is Social Security Disability for Wounded Warriors?

Just like it’s name implies, this program is basically an extension of Social Security Disability (SSDI). This is a program designed to help those who are no longer able to work full time due to long-term illnesses or injuries. SSDI is available to all who have worked and paid into the Social Security system. For those who are currently serving in the military, or those who have served, these same disability benefits are also available.

What Do I Need To Know?

The first thing you should know about this program is that it is not the same as any disability benefits you might get from the VA. These two programs are operated by different federal agencies and have different definitions of what it means to be disabled. This means that you need to apply for both separately. It also means that being denied benefits for one program doesn’t disqualify you from being accepted for the other.

Another thing to know is that, as a wounded warrior, you receive expedited processing. This doesn’t mean automatic acceptance, but it does mean you can know your status sooner rather than later. This is available to all who were serving on or after October 1, 2001.

A third important thing to know is that you may actually be able to receive these SSDI payments while still serving on active duty. Every service member’s situation is different, but depending on your circumstances the SSA might recognize that your active duty status does not necessarily reflect an able body. If this is the case, it might be possible to receive both your active duty pay as well as SSDI benefits at the same time. The bottom line? It doesn’t hurt to try and see what’s available to you.

If you think you might qualify, or if you would like to know more about Social Security disability benefits for Wounded Warriors, please don’t hesitate to contact us today!