SSI/SSDI and VA Disability Benefits: 

Veterans may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), in conjunction with or as an alternative to VA disability payments. They may also use the Medicaid and Medicare health benefits that come with SSI/SSDI to supplement VA health services.

The definition of disability and application process is different for SSA and VA disability benefits, and Veterans may begin receiving SSA benefits while they are waiting on a VA benefit decision. 

Each of these programs is administered by different government agencies and has its own eligibility criteria:

  • VA Disability Benefits: Administered by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Provides compensation to veterans with service-connected disabilities. Disability ratings are assigned based on the severity of service-connected conditions. Veterans can receive VA disability benefits concurrently with other disability programs.

  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). This program provides financial assistance to low-income individuals and couples, including veterans, who are blind, disabled, or age 65 or older. SSI is a need-based program that provides financial assistance to individuals with limited income and resources, including disabled adults. Veterans with service-connected disabilities may be eligible for both VA disability benefits and SSI if they meet the income and resource requirements.

  • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Also administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). SSDI is an insurance program that provides benefits to individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes but are unable to work due to a disability. This program offers financial support to disabled workers, including veterans, who have a sufficient work history and whose disability prevents them from engaging in "substantial gainful activity" (SGA).The criteria for eligibility and the definition of disability may differ between the VA and Social Security programs. While receiving VA disability benefits can strengthen a disability claim for SSI or SSDI, approval for one program does not guarantee approval for the other. Veterans may apply for SSI or SSDI at any time, and it is advisable to apply as soon as it becomes evident that a disability prevents substantial gainful employment. Veterans with service-connected disabilities may qualify for both VA disability benefits and SSDI, as eligibility for SSDI is based on work history and contributions to Social Security.

Veterans seeking information on SSI or SSDI should consult with the Social Security Administration and seek assistance from an attorney to navigate the application process and ensure they understand the implications of receiving multiple forms of disability benefits.  

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