Social Security Disability for Wounded Warriors and 100% P&T Veterans

Social Security disability is a separate program from VA compensation and uses its own definition of disability. Both can be paid at once in full; VA compensation does not reduce Social Security disability benefits. Social Security expedites the disability claims of a service member who became disabled while on active duty on or after October 1, 2001, wherever the injury happened, and of a veteran whose VA rating is 100% permanent and total. Expedited processing speeds the decision; it does not change the medical rule. Active-duty pay does not by itself bar benefits, because Social Security looks at the work actually done. Apply online, by phone, or at a field office, and tell Social Security about the military service or the P&T rating, with the VA letter.