The number of veterans who are returning to the U.S. with medical problems from injury due to physical and mental disorders is staggering. Those who reside in Florida need to understand that Social Security disability benefits are available to help them. A frequent concern for those who were injured and their families is the amount of time they have to wait to receive an approval for disability. With the recent decision on the part of the Social Security Administration to expedite claims for those who are 100 percent permanently and totally disabled, this should be less of a problem.
The initiative was begun in early 2015 and affects those who were rated as 100 percent Permanent and Total (P&T) disabled by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Commission. The rating of 100 percent does not automatically mean that disability benefits will be awarded. To receive benefits from Social Security, the impairment must be severe and expected to last for a minimum of 12 months or result in the claimant’s death. In addition, the claimant must not be able to perform substantial work. Those who would like to apply for disability benefits under this program can apply online, call Social Security, or visit their local Social Security office.
To receive benefits in an expedited fashion, the claimant should identify him or herself as having been rated 100 percent P&T. They must also supply a notification letter verifying that rating. Once it is shown that the claimant has fulfilled these requirements, the SSA will rush the application through at all levels including appeals, if any. The amount of time it will take varies and depends on the disability, how rapidly the medical evidence is received, and if it is necessary to send the claimant for a medical examination to receive evidence that they meet the medical requirements.
Many veterans have served their country and returned home with a variety of problems, making it impossible for them to work. Social Security disability is in place to help those who are facing this problem and do so in a faster-than-normal manner. Discussing the case with a lawyer can help a claimant understand the 100 percent P&T process and with filing a claim.
Source: SSA.gov, “Social Security Administration’s 100% Permanent & Total Veterans Initiative,” accessed on Aug. 25, 2015
