Massachusetts Social Security Disability Lawyers Blog
In addition to having to reintegrate after deployment, many veterans will return with catastrophic injuries, including amputation, paralysis, burns, and other disabilities. For some, the damage will be psychological, resulting in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The Social Security Administration (SSA) has created an expedited process to help veterans recover benefits quickly and effectively. In addition to proving benefits to veterans who have suffered a physical injury, the SSA has also begun providing compensation to victims PTSD sufferers. The benefits may be necessary for individuals who have recently served in Iraq or Afghanistan as well as for those who served in Desert Storm or Vietnam.
Any physical or psychological disability that renders a patient unable to work may result in benefits eligibility. Our Boston SSDI attorneys know that these cases are complicated and every beneficiary faces unique challenges. We make it our priority to help recover benefits for our clients in a timely and effective manner. When you or someone you love is in need of financial compensation after a disability, illness, or accident, it is important to consult with an experienced advocate as soon as possible to ensure your access to benefits.
According to reports, an increasing number of veterans are applying for disability after they return home and begin to have flashbacks, remembering their experiences in combat. Many of these veterans may have suffered physical injuries, such as a loss of limb, loss of hearing or vision, or other disability. In addition to the physical trauma of war, veterans may be forced to cope with the psychological traumas that may not appear for months or years after returning from combat.
Collecting benefits for PTSD as well as other psychological issues can be more complicated. It is necessary to provide documentation of your disorder and how it restricts your ability to find employment. According VA records, there are over 325,000 veterans with a PTSD disability and collecting benefits. While veterans may be more likely to prove PTSD, this opens the door for other victims PTSD and psychological stress the ability to collect benefits as well. Remember that the application process for SSDI can be complicated and often results in a first-time denial. An experienced advocate can review your case and claim and help you prepare proper documentation and records for your application.
Veterans may be able to recover disability benefits through an expedited process that initiated in March 2014. The Social Security Administration and VA pay disability benefits, but are very different in their process and criteria. A VA compensation of 100% does not guarantee Social Security disability benefits. Applicants seeking SSD benefits must be found to be disabled under the SSA definitions: 1) you must be unable to perform substantial work because of medical conditions, and 2) your medical condition must be expected to last at least one year, or until death. If you qualify for VA benefits, you are not barred from also collecting social security benefits. Veterans and individuals who have suffered from PTSD or other psychological issues that render them unable to work should consult with an experienced advocate as soon as possible.
Call our Boston SSDI attorneys for a free and confidential appointment at (617) 777-7777.
More Blog Entries:
Mays v. Colvin – Disproving Ability to Do Sedentary Work, Jan. 23, 2014, Boston Social Security Disability Insurance Attorney Blog
Disability Awareness Efforts a Reminder of Importance of Providing for Disabled, Feb. 20, 2014, Boston SSDI, Attorney Blog