WHAT VETERANS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT SOCIAL SECURITY

Veterans who served in any branch of the US military after 1964 have paid into the Social Security trust fund and are covered by Social Security disability (SSDI) for benefits if they become disabled.

The SSDI benefits are in addition to any retirement or disability payments received from the Veterans Administration (VA).

Here are some basic things veterans need to know:

1.  Social Security benefits are not automatic just because the VA makes a disability award.  The process is totally separate and the rules are different.

2.  VA may make a partial disability award (50 percent, 70 percent, etc.).  However, to get a Social Security disability benefit, you must be found totally disabled, i.e. unable to perform any type of full-time work.

3.  While SSDI benefits may be available, Social Security doesn't make them easy to get.  The application process is set up to DENY as many claims as possible.  Getting approved often involves a legal fight or appeal, which is complicated and frustrating if you try it alone.

4.  Veterans may be able to apply for SSDI benefits while they are still receiving active duty military pay.  The rule is that you are not able to perform your military duties, regardless of whether you are receiving full pay.  So, if you are waiting on a military board to discharge you for disability purposes, you may be able to apply for SSDI now.

5.  If a veteran has been award 100 percent permanent, total disability by the VA, Social Security can be made to expedite an SSDI claim and make a quicker decision.

6.  Our firm wins over 80 percent of the veteran's cases that we represent.  We are selective in the cases that we accept, but once we commit to represent you, our success rates are very high.  Our main source of new veteran clients is referrals from other veterans that we have successfully represented in the past.  We consider that a high honor.

7.  We will evaluate your case without any cost or obligation.  If we represent you, all our work is without cost or obligation until and unless you win your claim and receive past due payments from Social Security.
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THE FORSYTHE FIRM
7027 Old Madison Pike, Suite 108
Huntsville, AL 35806
CALL US:  (256) 799-0297

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