Hey, I’m 62 and retired from the military. I receive retirement benefits and military disability at 80%. I’m wondering if I can also collect Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)? Would getting SSDI affect my military disability payments? Appreciate any insights!
Yeah, you can get SSDI even if you’re receiving military disability. They’re based on different criteria.
Vick said:
Yeah, you can get SSDI even if you’re receiving military disability. They’re based on different criteria.
Good to know! So no impact on my military disability payments?
Vick said:
Yeah, you can get SSDI even if you’re receiving military disability. They’re based on different criteria.
Exactly. SSDI is about your ability to work, not your military disability rating. Totally separate.
SSA has its own definition of disability, so if your medical condition stops you from working, you should qualify.
Colby said:
SSA has its own definition of disability, so if your medical condition stops you from working, you should qualify.
Got it. Does SSA consider military service-related issues differently?
Colby said:
SSA has its own definition of disability, so if your medical condition stops you from working, you should qualify.
Not really. SSA doesn’t focus on the service connection, just whether your condition stops you from holding a job.
FYI, applying for SSDI at 62 might overlap with early Social Security retirement benefits. Make sure you check both options.
Eli said:
FYI, applying for SSDI at 62 might overlap with early Social Security retirement benefits. Make sure you check both options.
Oh, I didn’t think about that. Do they cancel each other out?
Eli said:
FYI, applying for SSDI at 62 might overlap with early Social Security retirement benefits. Make sure you check both options.
No cancellation, but SSDI could convert to regular retirement benefits at your full retirement age.
Just curious, when you said 80%, is that permanent and total (P&T)? Might make a difference for some benefits.
Holland said:
Just curious, when you said 80%, is that permanent and total (P&T)? Might make a difference for some benefits.
Not sure if it’s P&T, just that it’s rated 80%. Why does that matter?
Holland said:
Just curious, when you said 80%, is that permanent and total (P&T)? Might make a difference for some benefits.
P&T status sometimes affects eligibility for other programs, but for SSDI, it doesn’t really matter.
When you apply, make sure to highlight how your condition affects daily life and work ability. That’s what SSA looks for.
Dana said:
When you apply, make sure to highlight how your condition affects daily life and work ability. That’s what SSA looks for.
Thanks! Any tips for the application process?
Dana said:
When you apply, make sure to highlight how your condition affects daily life and work ability. That’s what SSA looks for.
Yeah, gather all your medical records and any documentation about how your condition impacts your work. It helps a ton.