SSD Benefits for Veterans with PTSD: What You Need to Know

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a common and serious condition among U.S. military veterans. As of 2023, more than 1.4 million veterans were receiving Veterans Affairs (VA) disability benefits for PTSD, including over 67,000 new recipients. However, many veterans with PTSD may not realize that they could also be eligible for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits.

Dual Eligibility for VA and SSD Benefits

It’s important to understand that not all veterans receiving VA disability benefits for PTSD automatically qualify for SSD benefits—and vice versa. However, a veteran who meets the criteria for both programs can receive benefits from both, potentially increasing their overall monthly income.

Understanding Eligibility Differences

One key difference between SSD and VA disability benefits lies in how each program defines and measures disability. For the Social Security Administration (SSA), there are no partial disabilities or degrees of disability. While a veteran might receive a 10%, 40%, or 70% disability rating from the VA, the SSA’s criteria are stricter: you must be fully disabled, meaning you are unable to engage in substantial gainful activity for at least one year.

Additionally, while VA disability benefits are exclusively for service-connected conditions, SSD eligibility does not depend on how you became disabled. However, to qualify for SSD, you must have accrued sufficient work credits before becoming disabled. The number of credits required varies based on your age at the time of disability.

Comparing SSD and VA Disability Benefits for PTSD

If you’re receiving VA disability benefits, you know that your compensation is based on your disability rating, with specific amounts set for each rating. For example, in 2024, a veteran with a 50% disability rating and no dependents receives $1,075.16 per month, while a veteran with a 100% disability rating receives $3,737.85 per month. These amounts are standardized, meaning they don’t fluctuate based on work history, length of military service, or other factors.

In contrast, SSD benefits are calculated based on the recipient’s earnings during their working years. Because SSA doesn’t assign degrees of disability, there’s no pro-rating like there is with VA disability. The monthly amount an SSD recipient receives can vary widely depending on their past earnings. As of March 2024, the average monthly SSD benefit was $1,537.33.

Maximizing Your Benefits

One significant advantage for veterans who qualify for both VA and SSD benefits is that receiving one does not reduce the other. This means that a disabled veteran eligible for both programs can potentially increase their monthly income by applying for SSD benefits in addition to their VA disability compensation.

For veterans struggling with PTSD, understanding and navigating the benefits available through both the VA and SSA can make a substantial difference in financial stability and quality of life. If you believe you may be eligible for SSD in addition to your VA disability benefits, it may be worth exploring your options to maximize your support.

Need Help with Your SSD Claim?

Navigating the complexities of SSD benefits can be challenging, especially when you’re already dealing with the effects of PTSD. At Nationwide Disability Law, we understand the unique needs of veterans and are here to support you. If you’re interested in pursuing an SSD claim, provide us with your contact information, and a team member will reach out to connect you with a trusted referral source who specializes in veterans’ claims. Your service to our country deserves the highest level of support—let us help you get the benefits you deserve.