SSA Fast-Tracks Disability Claims for Military

Can Social Security expedite disability claims for military veterans

Yes, some veterans and service members are eligible for fast-track processing of claims for (SSDI) and (SSI), the two programs through which Social Security provides benefits for people with disabilities. This expedited processing is available to current and former military personnel who fall into at least one of two Social Security categories: Wounded warrior. You served on or after Oct. 1, 2001, and became disabled while on active duty. It doesn't matter where the disability occurred — it need not be combat-related — but it must have happened during the period of active service. 100 percent P&T. Those are the conditions for fast-tracking. For those applications to be approved, veterans and service members also must: Meet the Social Security definition of disability, meaning they that prevents them from doing and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. Meet other eligibility criteria to qualify for SSDI or SSI. Those are related to the applicant's or and . Social Security estimates that the average SSDI benefit in 2022 will be $1,358 a month. (That's for all recipients, not just veterans.) The maximum federal payment for an individual receiving SSI is $841 a month. You can apply for SSDI , by phone at 800-772-1213 or in person at a . Local offices after being closed to walk-in traffic for more than two years due to the , but Social Security recommends calling in advance and scheduling an appointment to avoid long waits. In most cases, must be filed by phone or in person, but you can in limited circumstances.

How Social Security fast-tracks veterans claims

You do not need to request expedited processing specifically. Through electronic sharing of medical records with the VA and the Department of Defense, the SSA says it flags most claims from wounded warriors and veterans with 100 percent P&T ratings.
Still, the agency recommends that you notify it directly if you were injured while on active duty or meet the P&T threshold. You can do so in the “Remarks” section of the online application for disability benefits or when speaking to a Social Security representative by phone or in person. Be ready to provide the SSA with the VA letter confirming your P&T rating. Once a claim has been marked for fast-tracking, it will be rushed through the process at the SSA field and state offices that make disability determinations. The length of time needed to get a decision can depend on other factors, including these: The nature of your disability. How quickly SSA can gather medical records and other evidence of your condition. Whether you need to get a medical exam to support your claim.

Keep in mind

A 100 percent P&T rating does not guarantee that Social Security will approve your disability claim. It just speeds your application through the process. Fast-track status stays in place throughout the application process. If your initial disability claim is denied, any appeals will be expedited. You can receive disability benefits from , but in some cases one may affect eligibility and payment amounts for the other. Updated April 4, 2022

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