Residents of Florida and the Orlando/Tampa area might want to know more about receiving Social Security benefits if they have a disability. The Social Security administration has addressed this question for veterans who have a VA Compensation Rating of 100 percent P&T (permanent and total).
If you, or a friend or loved one, qualify to receive these benefits, there may be faster processing times for applications. Read on to understand what you might need before you apply.
What you need to know
The Social Security Administration began expedited processing in 2014. According to Social Security, the criteria of the VA and Social Security are very different. If you receive approval, after 24 months of disability, you will receive Medicare coverage automatically.
Receiving expedited benefits
You must be 100 percent permanent and totally disabled to receive SSD. You also must be unable to do substantial work because of your medical condition. Your condition must have the expectation of lasting at least a year, or it might result in your death. Moreover, any VA compensation will not affect your benefits.
You will need to do one of the following:
- Complete online application
- Call toll-free – 1-800-772-1213. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can call TTY 1-800-325-0778
- Visit the Social Security office in your area. You will need an appointment before you go there
How long it takes depends on several factors
The length of time depends on the nature of your disability, how quickly the doctor returns your medical information and whether you must undergo a medical examination for evidence to support your claim.
Before you submit your claim, it is smart to have all the information on hand. This will speed up the process.
Whether or not you are a veteran, if you, a friend, or a loved one is eligible for Social Security Disability benefits, it may be wise to consult an attorney with experience and knowledge in this area. They may help you to know your rights and get the money and benefits you need while assisting you through the application process.
