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At Peña & Bromberg, we are proud to offer Veteran Disability Lawyer Services to veterans in Fresno, California, and across the state. If you’re struggling to secure the VA disability benefits or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) you deserve, our experienced legal team is here to help. We understand the challenges you face, and we’re dedicated to fighting for your rights every step of the way.
Navigating the complexities of VA and SSDI claims can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you’re filing an initial claim, appealing a denial, or exploring expedited processing options, Jonathan Peña and our team are here to provide the skilled representation and compassionate advocacy you deserve. With our Veteran Disability Legal Services, we ensure that your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
On this page, we’ll explore:
- SSDI and VA Disability: Key Differences
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- VA Disability Compensation
- Key Differences at a Glance
- Can You Receive Both SSDI and VA Benefits?
- Expedited Claims for Veterans
- Other Social Security Benefits
- Why Choose Peña & Bromberg?
- How We Can Help You
- Contact Peña & Bromberg Today
SSDI and VA Disability: Key Differences
Both the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provide disability benefits, but the programs have distinct eligibility criteria and processes. Understanding these differences is crucial to maximizing the benefits you deserve.Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
SSDI is designed for individuals who are unable to work due to a severe medical condition. To qualify:- Disability Definition: You must have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that prevents you from performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).
- Duration: Your condition must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
- Work History: You must have worked long enough and recently enough to qualify for benefits.
- Payment Structure: SSDI offers all-or-nothing payments; there are no partial benefits.
- Eligibility Factors: Age, education, and work history can affect your eligibility.
VA Disability Compensation
The VA provides disability benefits to veterans with service-connected conditions. Key features include:- Disability Definition: Your condition must result from an injury, illness, or aggravation that occurred during or was worsened by active military service.
- Payment Structure: VA benefits are paid on a graduated scale, ranging from 10% to 100% in 10% increments, based on the severity of your disability.
- No Work Requirement: Your ability to work does not affect your eligibility for VA benefits.
- Duration: There is no requirement that your condition last 12 months or result in death.
- Eligibility Factors: Age, education, and work history do not affect your eligibility.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Criteria | VA Disability | SSDI |
| Service Connection Required | Yes | No |
| Must Prevent Substantial Work | No | Yes |
| Duration of Disability | No | Must last 12+ months or result in death |
| Partial Payments | Yes (10% to 100% scale) | No |
| All-or-Nothing Payment | No | Yes |
| Work History Requirement | No | Yes |
| Age, Education, Work History | No | Yes |
Can You Receive Both Benefits?
Yes! VA disability compensation and SSDI benefits are not affected by each other, meaning you can receive both if you meet the eligibility criteria for each program. However, you must apply for them separately.Expedited Claims for Veterans
The SSA and VA work together to expedite claims for certain veterans:- 100% Permanent & Total (P&T) VA Rating: Veterans with a 100% P&T rating qualify for priority processing of SSDI claims.
- Wounded Warriors: Veterans who became disabled while on active duty on or after October 1, 2001, also qualify for expedited claims.
Other Social Security Benefits
In addition to SSDI, veterans and their families may be eligible for other Social Security benefits, including: We can help you explore all available options to maximize your benefits.
Why Choose Peña & Bromberg?
- Proven Track Record: Jonathan Peña and our team have successfully represented countless veterans in securing the benefits they deserve.
- Personalized Attention: We take the time to understand your unique situation and tailor our approach to meet your needs.
- No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
- Compassionate Advocacy: As a veteran-owned firm, we are deeply committed to serving those who have served our country.
How We Can Help You
Whether you’re in Fresno or anywhere else in California, Jonathan Peña and our team are here to provide the skilled representation you deserve. We specialize in:- VA Disability Claims: Helping veterans secure compensation for service-connected disabilities, including PTSD, TBI, hearing loss, and chronic pain.
- SSDI Applications: Assisting veterans in applying for Social Security Disability Insurance if they are unable to work due to a severe medical condition.
- Expedited Claims: Supporting veterans with a 100% Permanent & Total (P&T) VA disability rating or those who became disabled while on active duty after October 1, 2001, in securing expedited processing.
- Appeals: Representing veterans in appeals for denied Veteran Disability Claim or SSDI claims, ensuring your case gets the fair review it deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I receive both VA disability compensation and SSDI benefits?
Yes, you can receive both VA disability compensation and SSDI benefits at the same time if you qualify for each program separately. VA benefits are based on service-connected conditions, while SSDI eligibility depends on your work history and medical disability. Since the programs are independent, receiving one does not reduce the other.
2. How are VA disability benefits different from SSDI?
VA disability benefits are based on service-connected conditions and are paid on a graduated scale from 10% to 100%. SSDI, on the other hand, is an all-or-nothing benefit based on your inability to work due to a severe medical condition and your work history. Understanding these differences is key to maximizing the benefits available to you.
3. Do veterans qualify for expedited SSDI claims?
Yes, certain veterans can qualify for expedited SSDI processing. Veterans with a 100% Permanent & Total (P&T) VA disability rating or those who became disabled while on active duty after October 1, 2001, are eligible for priority handling. Our team can help ensure you provide the right documentation to speed up your claim.
Contact Peña & Bromberg Today
Securing the VA disability or SSDI benefits you deserve can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Peña & Bromberg, our dedicated team is ready to guide you every step of the way from filing an initial claim to appealing a denial or navigating expedited processing options.
If you’re in Fresno or anywhere in California, let us fight for the benefits you’ve earned through your service. Call us at (559) 439-9700 or fill out our secure online contact form to schedule your free consultation today. Together, we’ll protect your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Veteran Disability Legal Services
What services are included in Veteran Disability Legal Services?
Our Veteran Disability Legal Services help veterans secure VA disability benefits and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). We assist with filing initial claims, handling denials, pursuing appeals, and exploring expedited claim options — all with skilled legal representation and compassionate advocacy.
What is the difference between VA disability benefits and SSDI?
VA disability benefits are awarded for conditions connected to military service and are paid on a graduated scale based on severity. SSDI is paid only if a veteran is unable to work due to a severe health condition and has sufficient work history. Each program has distinct eligibility requirements and processes.
Can I receive both VA disability and SSDI benefits at the same time?
Yes. Veterans can receive both VA disability compensation and SSDI benefits if they meet the eligibility criteria for each program separately. One does not reduce the other, but you must apply to each system independently.
What qualifies as a service-connected disability for VA benefits?
A condition qualifies if it resulted from, was worsened by, or is linked to active military service. This may include physical injuries, mental health conditions (like PTSD), chronic illnesses, or issues caused by hazardous exposure during service.
What happens if my VA disability claim is denied?
Denials are common, but you can appeal. Our team assists with appeals, reviews evidence, corrects errors, and aggressively advocates for your case — and we work on a no-fee-unless-we-win basis.
How long does it take to process veteran disability claims?
Processing times vary by program and individual circumstances. However, veterans with a 100% Permanent & Total (P&T) VA disability rating or those who became disabled on active duty may qualify for expedited SSDI processing to speed up decisions.
Do you help with expedited claim processing for veterans?
Yes. Veterans with higher disability ratings or specific qualifying circumstances can receive expedited handling for SSDI claims. Our staff helps ensure the correct documentation is submitted to request priority processing.
What evidence is needed to support a veteran disability claim?
Important evidence typically includes service records (DD214), medical diagnoses, treatment records, and documentation showing that your condition is linked to military service. Accurate, comprehensive records improve your chance at approval.
Why should I choose Peña & Bromberg for my veteran disability claim?
Our firm has a proven track record, offers personalized attention, works on contingency (no fee unless we win), and combines experienced legal strategy with compassionate advocacy to help veterans secure the benefits they’ve earned.
How do I get started or contact your firm for help?
You can schedule a free consultation by calling the office or filling out the online contact form on our website. Our team will review your situation, explain your options, and begin guiding you through the claims or appeals process.