Published on: April 14, 2016
Many people think that if you are receiving either Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), then you are automatically ineligible to receive another form of benefits including, unemployment or even Veteran’s disability.
However, that couldn’t be further from the truth; veterans can be awarded SSDI or SSI simultaneously with VA benefits too.
SSA and VA Disability: Compensation or Pension
The Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) has two forms of benefits-- Service-Connected and Non-service Connected benefits.
Service-Connected benefits are compensation based; while Non-service Connected benefits are service and pension based.
SSDI and VA Benefits
Veterans are eligible to and may receive Service-Connected Veterans disability while receiving SSDI.
There is generally no conflict with simultaneously receiving both forms of disability benefits since eligibility for SSDI and Service-Connected benefits are not determined by the veteran's income and resources.
It is important to note that Service-Connected benefits (compensation) are allocated to veterans when he or she suffers from chronic physical or mental disability that was caused by, appeared during or exacerbated while in the military.
SSI and VA Benefits
The VA’s Non-service Connected benefits operate similarly to the Social Security Administration’s SSI benefits-- both are determined by income and resources in addition to medical condition. While receiving both forms of benefits is possible, it will depend on the extent of income and resources available to the veteran.
Instead of looking at the veteran’s work history to receive SSI, the SSA will evaluate the amount of income and resources a veteran has. For example, if the veteran has ample resources and income, he or she may be considered ineligible for SSI benefits from the SSA.
Non-Service Connected benefits are similar to SSI; he or she will not receive funds from the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) if the veteran shows reasonable means. In turn, the SSA will offset SSI payments based on the amount of money the vet is receiving from the DVA including Non-service Connected (pension) benefits.
The SSA and VA Benefit Qualifications
Both the Social Security Administration and the Department of Veteran’s Affairs have similar qualifications for receiving benefits. For example, to be awarded Social Security Disability:
- You must be completely disabled, and
- Your condition is expected to last up to 12 months or result in death
To be awarded veterans disability:
- You must have been diagnosed with a disability from an incident during active service
A Few Things to Remember
Service-Connected (compensation) benefits are linked to service; while Non-service Connected (pension) benefits are linked to need. The DVA rates the degree of disability in 10% increments.
Even though it is possible for veterans to receive SSDI and veteran’s benefits, applying for benefits from two government agencies can be frustrating and complex. It shouldn’t be a hassle for our country’s veterans to attain the support they need. Contact us today to learn how we can serve you.
