Side by side
| VA disability compensation | Social Security disability | |
|---|---|---|
| Question asked | How severe is each service-connected condition? | Can you perform any substantial gainful work? |
| Partial benefits? | Yes. Ratings range from 0% to 100%. | No. You're either disabled under SSA rules or not. |
| Must it be service-related? | Yes | No. Any medical cause counts. |
| Can you work? | Yes, in most cases (except TDIU) | Not above the SGA level |
| Duration requirement | None | Expected to last 12+ months or result in death |
| Representative fees | Not before VA's first decision on a claim. Ours: 20% of past-due benefits, only if we win. | Ours: 25% of past-due benefits, capped (currently $9,200) and SSA-approved, only if we win. |
Can I receive both?
Yes. VA compensation does not reduce SSDI, and SSDI does not reduce VA compensation. Many veterans receive both, including veterans on TDIU. SSI is different: VA payments count as income and usually reduce or eliminate SSI.
Does my VA rating help with Social Security?
For claims filed on or after March 27, 2017, SSA doesn't adopt or analyze other agencies' disability decisions (20 CFR 404.1504). It does consider all the underlying evidence, including your VA medical records and C&P exams. A strong VA file often makes a strong SSA file.
Expedited processing for veterans
- 100% P&T veterans: SSA expedites disability claims for veterans with a VA compensation rating of 100% Permanent & Total. Provide your VA notification letter.
- Wounded Warriors: Service members who became disabled while on active duty on or after October 1, 2001 receive expedited processing, regardless of where the disability occurred.
- Military pay received while in a hospital or on limited duty doesn't automatically mean you were working at the SGA level. SSA looks at the actual work performed.
Rated by VA and unable to work?
Free Claim Review →Let's see whether you may also qualify for Social Security disability.
Official sources
SSA: Disability benefits for Wounded Warriors & veterans · 20 CFR 404.1504
General information, not legal advice. 2026 figures from SSA. Last reviewed October 2026.