Our Services
Existing Claim Help
Resources
Veterans can receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability benefits at the same time if they qualify for both. This article explains SSDI vs. VA disability, when you can get both, and why VA approval doesn’t automatically qualify you for SSDI.
You may qualify for both SSDI and VA disability if you meet the SSDI eligibility rules and the VA’s rules. SSDI is based on your work history and the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) disability rules. VA disability compensation is for a service-connected disability, including injuries and illnesses connected to military service.
Approval for one program doesn’t automatically qualify you for the other. A VA decision can support an SSDI claim though.
This side-by-side view of the two programs shows the main differences.
Check your SSDI eligibility in a few minutes.
No cost to start.
Talk with our team about your situation. We'll walk you through what comes next.
Get EvaluationSee what documents you need. We'll help you get everything in place.
Get EvaluationNot sure what that SSA letter means? We can review it with you.
Get EvaluationGet support from a team that handles the paperwork and follows through.
Get EvaluationThe different work rules can be confusing because if you’re a veteran, you can have any percentage rating and still work. Your work income doesn’t affect your monthly benefit.
Since SSDI is monthly benefits paid from your Social Security retirement fund, your ability to work is the key issue. Check the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limits, and make sure you can’t earn that much because of your condition.
VA disability compensation payments are based on your disability rating and if you have dependents. The higher your rating, the higher your monthly benefit.
SSDI does not pay partial disability benefits, the program is all or nothing. SSDI payments are based on your lifetime earnings so two people with the same condition could get very different SSDI payments.
If you meet the SSA’s disability rules but you don’t have enough work credits to qualify for SSDI, you may be able to get Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is based on need and your income, and resources must be limited to qualify for it. Because the program is needs-based, any VA compensation affects eligibility and monthly payment amount.
These examples show how the rules apply in everyday situations. They aren’t predictions about any claim.
A veteran has a 60% VA rating and works full time. They may receive VA disability compensation but not qualify for SSDI because earnings are over SGA thresholds.
A veteran with a 100% P&T rating who can’t work must prove to the SSA that they are unable to do SGA for at least a year.
A veteran who develops a serious condition won’t get VA disability compensation unless the condition is a service-connected disability. They may qualify for SSDI or SSI though.
Applying for SSDI is the same whether you’re a veteran or not. You can apply online, by phone, or at a local SSA office.
Typically, you provide the names and contact information of your VA and private providers and medical release forms. Then Disability Determination Services (DDS) gathers your evidence to decide your case.
If you have key evidence on hand, submit it. Your VA records can be useful if they have information about your condition, limitations, and ability to work. Keep copies of your application and everything you submit.
Steps to take:
The details in your claim and medical evidence are important. The SSA needs enough information to connect your medical condition, work history, and work limits.
If you want to learn more about the SSA forms needed to apply, these articles can help:
The SSDI paperwork and process can be overwhelming, especially when you don’t feel well. Advocate can help reduce your burden and frustration. Our disability specialists and clinical staff can help you build a strong claim, gather convincing evidence, and avoid common mistakes.
Our process includes a free evaluation, onboarding support, case preparation, and ongoing support through the SSDI process. We don’t provide medical or legal advice or help with VA claims, but we know what the SSA needs to see to approve an SSDI claim.
There’s no upfront cost for Advocate’s help, and you only pay a fee if you win.
Check your SSDI eligibility in a few minutes.
No cost to start.
Talk with our team about your situation. We'll walk you through what comes next.
Get EvaluationSee what documents you need. We'll help you get everything in place.
Get EvaluationNot sure what that SSA letter means? We can review it with you.
Get EvaluationGet support from a team that handles the paperwork and follows through.
Get EvaluationYes, if you qualify for both. The benefits are from separate agencies with different requirements.
No. VA disability compensation is not considered work income for SSDI and doesn’t affect SSDI payments.
Yes, VA disability compensation counts as income for SSI. Since SSI is based on need, VA income could make you ineligible for SSI or reduce your benefit.
It can help as evidence, and you can get expedited processing if your rating is 100%. It doesn’t guarantee approval.
Yes. Anyone applying for SSDI needs enough work credits from paying Social Security taxes to qualify. Get an explanation of work credits.
Yes. SSDI has nothing to do with military service. You must have enough work credits and prove that you have a severe condition that prevents you from working.
Let us prepare your application so you're not managing the paperwork alone.
Get EvaluationConnect with an Advocate specialist who's with you from day one.
Get EvaluationBegin your claim with a team that knows the SSA process inside and out.
Get Evaluation