On Tuesday, March 18, the Social Security Administration (SSA) announced the launch of a new expedited disability process for veterans. According to Carolyn W. Colvin, Acting Commissioner of the SSA, the new service will address slow response and processing times for disability claims filed by veterans. Specifically, the new process will treat veterans with a VA disability rating of 100% Permanent and Total (P&T) as high priority.
Veterans who meet the disability rating requirements will benefit from the new process by receiving expedited decisions, thereby ensuring that they receive the benefits they deserve as quickly as possible. This can greatly help veterans and their families struggling with the repercussions of a service-connected disability, especially the financial burdens these disabilities can create. The process is expected to operate in much the same way as the Agency currently handles disability claims from Wounded Warriors.
Acting Commissioner Colvin commented on the new process by stating that it marks a new milestone in how our nation’s social services treat veterans who made the decision to serve and sacrifice for our country. Colvin added that disability benefits are a lifeline to those who need it most, and that “no one wants to put America’s veterans through a bureaucratic runaround.”
Veterans must inform the SSA of their 100% VA disability rating and must also provide proof of their rating by using their VA Notification Letter in order to receive the expedited service. The SSA also stressed that while the new process will expedite claim processing, it does not guarantee an approval for benefits. As such, veterans looking to increase their chances of filing a successful claim and receiving the benefits they need quickly should work with experienced veterans disability lawyer.
George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers is proud to serve disabled residents and service-members throughout the state of South Carolina, and we strongly support the new expedited disability process for veterans. You can find more information about the expedited service on the SSA website, or by contacting our firm to speak with a member of our legal team.