Can I Get Both VA Benefits And Social Security Disability?

Question: Can I get both VA benefits and Social Security disability benefits?

Answer: For the most part, yes.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is administered by Social Security, is a needs based program. Income from another source, such as a VA benefit would reduce or eliminate SSI. VA non-service connected disability benefits are also a needs based program. Income from another source, such as Social Security disability benefits, would reduce or eliminate a VA non-service connected disability benefit.

Otherwise, VA benefits have no effect upon Social Security disability benefits based upon your earnings and VA service connected disability benefits are not affected by any Social Security benefit.

If you are drawing VA disability benefits, particularly if you have a high disability rating, you should be drawing or trying to draw Social Security disability benefits. The high disability rating does not guarantee victory on a Social Security disability claim but it’s a good sign. Conversely, don’t be too worried if VA only gives you a low disability rating. Your VA rating is probably based only upon your service connected impairments. Social Security will consider all your impairments regardless of whether or not they have a service connection.