This is a cross-post from our Veterans’ Disability blog:

Social Security has established a program it calls “Wounded Warriors,” which expedites the claims of wounded service members.

Estimates on the number of Wounded Warriors vary depending on the source:

• The DOD reports about 34,000 were wounded since 2001.
• The GAO’s analysis of VA data shows there are about 250,000 wounded.
• A 2008 study by the RAND corp. estimates 500,000+ active duty and veterans suffer from one of three mental health or cognitive conditions.

Even though we don’t know how many service members have been injured in Iraq and Afghanistan, it is clear that more should be applying for Social Security disability benefits.

Only a small number (4%) of Wounded Warriors receiving DOD or VA benefits also receive Social Security disability.

To qualify for the Wounded Warriors progam:

• you must have been on active duty on or after October 1, 2001,
• you must have been disabled on or after October 1, 2001.

If you think you cannot work, then you should file an application for Social Security disability. Even if you were disabled before 2001, you can still apply for benefits, but your case won’t be expedited by SSA.

One encouraging statistic is that most Wounded Warriors get approved for benefits. SSA has approved about 60% of the applications so far.

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This blog provides general information. Do not mistake it for legal advice. Please read our disclaimer.

Related posts:

1. Are You Satisfied with the Social Security Administration?
2. Can I Get Approved for Social Security Disability While I Am Working?