Social Security Questions for Veterans

By Leonard Dozier

As a result of disabilities caused by battle, many veterans become entitled to Social Security benefits well before the federally-mandated retirement age. Others become entitled upon retirement at the age of 65. Because the Social Security system can be complex, many veterans are unsure of how to go about applying for benefits or finding out other benefits to which they might be entitled. Thus, understanding key questions to be asked is the most effective way to begin pursuing these benefits.

The question of "What benefits are available?" refers not only to monetary compensation but also to health insurance coverage. The benefits available to veterans are Social Security Disability Insurance payments (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI payments are based on the amount of earnings a veteran earned while working as an adult. Conversely, SSI payments are distributed based on the Social Security Administration's "pool" of revenue.

Additionally, Medicare is available to veterans needing health coverage. Under Social Security, veterans may also receive free transportation services for health services such as doctor visits.

Applying for benefits begins with contacting the Social Security office closest to your location. An appointment will be set and a claim will be filed. Those receiving veterans benefits may still apply for Social Security benefits. Disabled veterans will have to prove disability and may need to seek the services of an attorney to obtain benefits. Disability examiners often reject many initial applications. In fact, roughly 70 percent of initial applications are denied. Veterans may then file a "request for consideration" at their nearest social security office. If denied again, veterans may ask to receive a hearing before an administrative judge.

According to Military.com, "military veterans who served between 1940 and 2001 may be credited for special extra earnings" which may increase Social Security benefits for veterans upon retirement. These special extra earnings are broken down according to the following: $100 for every $300 of active duty pay earned between 1978 and 2001, $300 dollars each calendar quarter for active duty pay between 1957 and 1977 or $160 each monthly for active duty pay between 1940 and 1956. However, for the period between 1940 and 1956, veterans must currently must be on active duty, honorably discharged after 90 days or relieved of duties because of a disability, or a survivor of a veteran of this time period who died while on active duty.

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