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.
For more information on SGA, visit the SSA’s SGA page.
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.
Our team can help you gather the necessary documentation, such as your VA notification letter, to ensure your claim is processed quickly.
Other Social Security Benefits
In addition to SSDI, veterans and their families may be eligible for other Social Security benefits, including:
- Retirement Benefits
- Medicare
- Survivors Benefits
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 VA or SSDI claims, ensuring your case gets the fair review it deserves.
Conclusion
Securing the VA disability or SSDI benefits you deserve can be a complex and challenging process, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Peña & Bromberg, we are here to guide you every step of the way, from filing your initial claim to appealing a denial or navigating expedited processing options.
If you’re in Fresno or anywhere in California, Jonathan Peña and our team are ready to fight for the benefits you’ve earned through your service. Let us help you navigate the system and secure the compensation you deserve.
Contact Peña & Bromberg Today
If you’re struggling with a VA disability claim, SSDI application, or appeal, don’t wait to get the help you need. Jonathan Peña and our team are here to fight for the benefits you’ve earned.
Call us at (559) 439-9700 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the system and secure the compensation you deserve.
