If you’re a veteran with a service-connected disability, you might think VA benefits are your only path forward. But here’s something many disabled veterans don’t realize: your VA disability rating can significantly strengthen, and even help approve, a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim.
In fact, a high VA rating or Permanent & Total (P&T) status can be a game-changer in your SSDI application. Here’s how.
SSA Gives Weight to VA Decisions
Social Security Administration (SSA) examiners don’t dismiss VA ratings casually. When you have an established VA service-connected disability, especially at a higher rating, it signals that another federal agency has already thoroughly evaluated your condition and found legitimate, documented impairment tied to your service.
SSA still conducts its own review and uses its own rules. However, VA medical records, exams, and decisions enter the SSDI process with substantial evidence and medical support already in place. For example, a veteran with a 50% VA rating for PTSD enters the SSDI process with significant credibility already established.
Higher Ratings Make a Stronger Case
The higher your VA rating, the stronger your SSDI case becomes. Here’s the general progression:
10-20% ratings show that a disability exists, but they also suggest you may still be able to work. SSA will review these cases closely.
30-40% ratings reflect moderate limitations. These can help, especially if you can show the condition has worsened or prevents substantial gainful activity.
50% and above is where VA ratings begin to significantly strengthen SSDI applications. At these levels, you’re already reporting serious functional limitations, something SSA pays close attention to.
Permanent & Total (P&T) status is especially influential. When the VA declares your condition permanent and fully disabling, SSA views this as powerful evidence. Many P&T veterans receive faster, more favorable SSDI decisions.
Different Systems, Different Standards
It’s important to remember that VA disability benefits and SSDI use different criteria. The VA asks if a condition is service-connected and causes disability. Social Security asks whether you can work and earn a substantial income.
These aren’t identical questions. You might be rated at 10% by the VA for a minor service-connected condition, yet be unable to work due to that condition’s severity or other factors. Conversely, you could have multiple conditions but still be deemed capable of work.
When you have a high VA rating, however, it demonstrates to SSA that your condition(s) are serious enough that a federal agency has already concluded you’re significantly disabled. This creates momentum in your SSDI case.
The Strategic Advantage
When you apply for SSDI, include your VA documentation. Submit your VA rating decision, your C-file medical records if available, and any VA medical evidence. This shows SSA:
Your disability has been officially recognized You have a documented medical history Another federal agency determined your condition is severe Your functional limitations are real and documented
Veterans with established VA ratings, especially 50% or higher or P&T status, have statistically higher SSDI approval rates and shorter wait times than non-veterans applying for the same conditions.
You May Qualify for Both
Here’s the best part: you don’t have to choose. Many veterans receive both VA disability compensation and SSDI. They’re separate programs with separate funding, and both recognize your disability.
Get Expert Help
Navigating both VA and SSDI claims simultaneously requires strategy. You need to present your case in ways that satisfy both agencies’ criteria while maximizing your benefits.
At McKown and Myers, we help Indiana veterans and disabled individuals secure both VA and SSDI benefits. If you have a VA rating and want to explore SSDI, or if you’re struggling with an SSDI denial, call 765-668-7531 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. Your disability is real. Let us help you get the benefits you deserve.