November 11, Veterans Day, is a time to honor the men and women who risk their lives to protect our freedom. Join us in saluting the men and women of the armed forces. Be sure to say “thank you” to all veterans on this important day.

At Social Security’s Wounded Warriors website: www.socialsecurity.gov/woundedwarriors, we answer a number of commonly asked questions, and share other useful information about disability benefits, including how veterans can receive expedited processing of disability claims. Benefits available through Social Security are different than those from the Department of Veterans Affairs and require a separate application.

Our expedited process is for military service members who became disabled while on active military service on or after October 1, 2001, regardless of where the disability occurs.

Active duty military receiving pay while in a hospital or on medical leave should consider applying for disability benefits if they are unable to work due to a disabling condition. Active duty status and receipt of military pay do not necessarily disqualify an applicant. A person cannot receive Social Security disability benefits while engaging in substantial work for pay or profit. However, work activity, not the amount of pay determines if your disability qualifies you for benefits.

We at Social Security thank all veterans and members of the armed services for all that they do — not only on Veterans Day, but every day of the year.


 

Questions, online applications, or to make an appointment to visit a Social Security office, contact:
1-800-772-1213 (toll free) | 1-800-325-0778 (TTY)
www.socialsecurity.gov