WHY VETERANS MAY GET SOCIAL SECURITY DISABIILTY

Starting in 1957, members of the US armed forces have paid Social Security tax on their military earnings.  This makes them eligible for Social Security disability benefits if they become disabled.

A disabled service member may
  • receive Social Security benefits in addition to VA disability
  • receive Social Security benefits while getting active duty pay from the military 
  • receive Social Security benefits without decreasing or delaying VA disability and/or pension benefits. 
VA and Social Security disability programs are totally distinct and do not interfere with each other or "offset" each other.  The rules of eligibility are somewhat similar; however, they are not identical.  One major difference is that the Veterans Administration may award partial disability awards, while Social Security is an "all or none" proposition.  You are either disabled or you are not.  Social Security has no partial disability.

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