Veterans Will Receive Expedited Processing When They Apply for Disability
| August 4th, 2014
As American combat campaigns continue to wind down in the Middle East, soldiers are returning home from service every day suffering from injuries and health conditions that prevent them from working. Many of these individuals should have access to both Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits and Veterans Disability benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), but a lack of communication and collaboration between government organizations often prevents service members from receiving both. To help address this problem, there have been changes made to the Social Security Disability eligibility policies for soldiers who receive a total and permanent disability (TPD) discharge or are deemed totally (100 percent) disabled by the VA. These individuals now qualify for expedited processing of their disability claim, but certain steps must be followed. The Social Security Administration explains 100 percent disabled veterans must have an onset date—or the date they were classified as totally disabled— of on or after October 1, 2001. Furthermore, these individuals should identify themselves as a “100 percent totally and permanently disabled veteran” in the remarks section of their paperwork when they apply for disability. Officials add that being a “100 percent totally and permanently disabled veteran” doesn’t necessarily guarantee an approved claim, but it will ensure a decision is reached faster. At Berg Injury Law, we know the difference that can be made by receiving a Social Security Disability decision even a day sooner. Hiring a personal injury attorney to assist with your case can help ensure the decision that is reached is accurate and fair. So if you have questions or you need help applying for disability or appealing a decision, call us at (800) 400-2374.
