Injured veterans are eligible for expedited Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. Any veteran wounded after October 1, 2001, no matter the cause or place of the injury is eligible for these services.

Even veterans in active duty status and receiving military pay might still be eligible for SSD. The determining factor, of course, is whether the disability is preventing you from engaging in substantial work for pay or profit.

The structure of Social Security Disability for Wounded Warriors allows military folks to gradually test themselves to see if they are ready to return to full or at least substantial employment. These work incentives allow vets to return to work, or enroll in school, get additional training or receive needed rehabilitation in order to become work-ready. The “trial work period” permits a beneficiary to work for at least nine months and still receive full Social Security benefits, so long as you are complying with the reporting obligation and continue to have a disabling impairment.

The range of benefits includes:

• Social Security Disability benefits, available with enough work history and Supplemental Security Income
• Spouses over the age of 62 or caring for a minor child
• Medicare coverage after 24 months of disability

Filing for SSD benefits can be confusing and complicated, especially when combined with active military service or veterans status. Consider a consultation with experienced counsel who knows the ins and outs of Social Security Disability to assist you in filing, completing your application and ensuring that you are getting the full range of benefits you deserve.