It is no secret that the Social Security Administration has a backlog of applications for veterans who are seeking benefits. For some vets, benefits are the only means of income these men and woman might have. However, some vets in West Virginia and around the nation could benefit from a recent decision that could help fast-track their benefits.
According to a recent announcement from the White House, veterans who have been certified as fully disabled will have their applications moved to the front of the line for benefits consideration. Unfortunately, this does not affect those who are not considered 100 percent disabled, but it could speed up the process for some vets.
In order to be fast-tracked, a veteran will have to be certified by the Veterans Administration as 100 percent disabled. Once the determination has been made, it will be up to the applicant to provide the information to the Social Security Administration. This will not guarantee benefits, as veterans will still need to meet eligibility requirements.
With the aging population and more veterans are needing assistance, this new process should ensure that many veterans receive services and benefits as soon as possible. However, even those who aren’t completely disabled should apply for the benefits for which they are entitled. The process can be daunting and time consuming. Those who would like help navigating the system can speak to an experienced legal professional. Those professionals can explain the process and help those who need services find the right avenues to follow to get the help they need to live as normal a life as possible.
Source: Military.com, “Fully Disabled Vets Get Social Security Fast-track” Bryant Jordan, Mar. 18, 2014
