There are millions of brave men and women who serve our country, protecting our freedoms, our values and our very way of life. Our law firm and all of our associates are truly thankful for the sacrifices and dedication of our service members.
Unfortunately, though, military service members—just like any other vocation or walk of life—can become disabled and not able to work for an extended period of time, sometimes permanently.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a program through which military service members can receive expedited processing of disability claims. It is important to note that benefits available through the SSA are different from those that can be obtained through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and they also require a separate application.
According to the SSA, the expedited claims process is used for military service members who become disabled while on active military duty on or after October 1, 2001, regardless of where the disability occurs.
Disabled military service members (just like civilians applying for benefits) must meet Social Security’s strict definition of disability, meaning that:
- You must be unable to do substantial work because of your medical condition(s); and
- Your medical condition(s) must have lasted, or be expected to last, at least one year or to result in death.
If you or a loved one is a military service member and is suffering from a disabling injury or condition, please contact our office for help in applying for and receiving disability benefits.