Expedited Disability Processing Times for Veterans

The Social Security Administration (“SSA”) announced a new initiative last month that would expedite Social Security Disability claims for veterans who are rated 100% Permanent and Totally (“P&T”) disabled by the Department of Veterans Affairs (“VA”). The new initiative only expedites the Social Security Disability claims process and does not guarantee approval of such benefits. In order to have a case expedited, the veteran must tell SSA that they have a VA disability compensation of 100% P&T and provide his/her VA notification and award letter to SSA. SSA will flag the case for expedited processing.

 SSA will still require that the veteran meet SSA’s own definition of disability. However, the veteran will not have to wait the normal average timeframe of 120 to 270 days it takes SSA to process a claim. This expedited process was already in effect for Wounded Warrior claims. Thus, it is an expansion of existing expedited processes that have been applicable to other veteran groups. SSA plans to launch this new process in mid-March.

 Got a question that you need answered? Please check out our website at www.westcoastdisability.com . We try to provide you with valuable information on our website that may help you navigate the Social Security Disability process. Also, feel free to shoot us an email at info@westcoastdisability.com or call us at (800) 459-3017.