Usually, a person applying for Social Security Disability benefits waits a long time. This wait can be three to six months or even longer.
They must wait for an initial decision from the Social Security Administration (SSA). The process can become even more prolonged if someone denies the claim and requires appeals. This waiting period can pose significant financial and emotional challenges for individuals unable to work because of disability.
Expedited Processing for Wounded Warriors
The SSA helps veterans who became disabled while serving. They offer faster processing of disability claims through the Wounded Warrior Program. This program is for any service member who became disabled while on active duty after October 1, 2001. It does not matter where the disability happened, whether in combat or during peacetime.
Eligibility for Expedited Processing
To qualify for expedited processing under the Wounded Warrior Program, a claimant must:
- Have been on active duty military service at the time of the disability onset.
- Have a disabling condition that prevents substantial gainful activity (SGA).
- Apply for benefits under either Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
The SSA will prioritize these applications and aim to make faster determinations than the standard processing timeline.
Applying for Social Security Disability as a Veteran
Veterans can apply for disability benefits with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Social Security Administration (SSA). It is important to note that:
- The VA’s disability rating system differs from SSA’s determination of disability.
- Receiving VA disability benefits does not automatically qualify a veteran for SSA disability benefits, but it can be strong supporting evidence.
- Veterans who receive a 100% Permanent and Total (P&T) disability rating from the VA are also eligible for expedited Social Security disability processing under a separate program.
Key Differences Between VA and SSA Disability Benefits
| Feature | Veterans Administration (VA) Disability Benefits | Social Security Administration (SSA) Disability Benefits |
| Eligibility | Service-connected disabilities | Any disability preventing work, regardless of cause |
| Partial Benefits | Yes, based on percentage rating system | No, must be totally disabled |
| Work History Requirement | No | Yes, for SSDI (must have sufficient work credits) |
| Income Restrictions | No | Yes, for SSI (income and asset limits) |
| Expedite Programs | Yes, for 100% P&T disability rating | Yes, for Wounded Warriors and 100% P&T rating |
How the Wounded Warrior Program Eases the Disability Process
The Wounded Warrior program streamlines disability claims for eligible veterans in the following ways:
- Faster Review Process – Applications flagged under the Wounded Warrior Program receive priority status at all stages of the review.
- No Need to Prove Service Connection – Unlike VA benefits, SSA does not require proof that the disability was caused by military service, only that it meets the SSA’s definition of disability.
- Concurrent Benefits Possible – Veterans may be eligible to receive both VA disability benefits and Social Security Disability benefits if they meet the criteria for each.
Steps to Apply for Social Security Disability as a Wounded Warrior
- Prepare Necessary Documentation:
- Military medical records
- DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty)
- Work history details
- Medical treatment history
- Submit an Application:
- Online at www.ssa.gov
- In-person at a local SSA office
- By calling SSA at 1-800-772-1213
- Ensure Your Application Is Flagged for Expedited Processing:
- Clearly indicate that the disability occurred while on active duty.
- Attach supporting military and medical documentation.
- Follow Up Regularly:
- Keep in touch with SSA to ensure the case is progressing under the expedited process.
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
Final Thoughts
The Wounded Warrior Program is a crucial initiative aimed at providing faster relief for veterans who have become disabled while serving their country. While the application process still requires medical and work history documentation, the expedited review ensures that eligible veterans receive decisions more quickly than the standard processing timeline.
Veterans seeking Social Security Disability benefits should take advantage of available resources, including legal assistance, veteran service organizations (VSOs), and direct SSA support. By understanding their rights and following the correct application steps, wounded warriors can better navigate the disability claims process and receive the benefits they deserve for their service and sacrifice.
