Veterans who have served our country often face obstacles when they begin applying for veterans disability benefits. These benefits are specifically designed for those who have served in the military. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is another type of disability benefit for those who did not serve. It’s important to understand the differences between these programs if you are a veteran seeking benefits.

VA Disability Benefits
VA disability benefits are tax-free monthly payments provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to veterans with service-connected disabilities. These benefits are designed to compensate veterans for injuries or illnesses that occurred or were aggravated during active military service. The key features of these benefits include:
- Eligibility based on service-connected disabilities
- A graduated scale of compensation based on disability rating (10% to 100%)
- Partial disability payments are available
- No impact on eligibility due to income or assets
To qualify, veterans must:
- Have prior active duty service, active duty for training, or inactive duty training
- Have a discharge status other than dishonorable
- Have a qualifying medical condition rated at least 10% disabling by the VA
- Provide evidence linking the disability to military service
VA Disability Benefits vs. SSDI
Both VA disability benefits and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provide financial support for individuals with disabilities. However, there are significant differences between the two programs.
- Administering Agency:
- Veterans Disability Benefits: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
- SSDI: Social Security Administration (SSA)
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Veterans Disability Benefits: Service-connected disabilities
- SSDI: Disabilities that prevent substantial gainful activity, regardless of cause
- Disability Definition:
- Veterans Disability Benefits: Injuries or illnesses related to military service
- SSDI: Severe medical conditions expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
- Payment Structure:
- Veterans Disability Benefits: Graduated scale based on disability rating (10% to 100%)
- SSDI: All-or-nothing payment system
- 5. Work History Requirement:
- Veterans Disability Benefits: No specific work history is required
- SSDI: Requires sufficient work credits earned through Social Security taxes
- 6. Partial Disability:
- Veterans Disability Benefits: Offers partial disability payments
- SSDI: Does not provide benefits for partial disability
- 7. Impact on Other Benefits:
- Veterans Disability Benefits: Generally do not affect SSDI eligibility or payment amounts
- SSDI: May be reduced if receiving certain other government benefits
Veterans may qualify for both veteran disability benefits and SSDI simultaneously. However, each program has an application process and eligibility requirements.
Other Types of Disability Benefits
In addition to VA Disability Benefits and SSDI, there are other disability benefit programs that veterans may be eligible for:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI):
- Needs-based program for low-income individuals with disabilitiesAdministered by the SSA
- Can be received in conjunction with VA Disability Benefits
- VA Pension:
- Needs-based benefit for wartime veterans with limited income
- May impact eligibility for SSI due to higher payment amounts
- State Disability Programs:
- Some states offer additional disability benefits
- Eligibility and benefits vary by state
To learn more, speak with a veteran disability attorney to learn more about what options may be available.
Choosing the Right Benefits
For veterans with disabilities, navigating the various benefit programs can be overwhelming. It’s important to understand the differences between veterans benefits and other types of disability benefits to make informed decisions about which programs are applicable.
VA disability benefits were designed specifically for veterans with service-connected disabilities. SSDI may provide additional support for veterans with severe disabilities that impact their ability to work. Sometimes, veterans may be eligible for multiple benefit programs, giving them maximum support.
Before applying for benefits, consider your needs and which one might be the best for you:
- Assess their circumstances, including service history, disability type, and severity
- Consult with a Veterans Service Officer or disability attorney for personalized guidance
- Gather necessary documentation to support their claims
- Apply for all potentially applicable benefit programs
By understanding the differences between the VA’s disability and other disability benefit programs, veterans can ensure they receive the full range of support they deserve for their service and sacrifices.
Herren Law Helps Houston Veterans
Getting VA disability benefits is a difficult process requiring patience and understanding of the law. William Herren is a veterans disability attorney who has helped more than 4,000 Houstonians get the benefits they deserve.
Call The Herren Law Firm today at 713-682-8194 (or use our online contact form) to schedule your free consultation. There’s no obligation, and we’ll take your case on a contingency fee basis, with no up-front charges. You don’t owe a fee until we win your case.