Today, the Nation celebrates Memorial Day to honor military service members who have given their lives for our country.

Social Security is reminding families who have lost loved ones that benefits may be payable to surviving family members, including spouses and children. Jack Myers with Social Security indicates a whole lot more on this is available at www.ssa.gov/survivors.

Social Security disability benefits can help financially if you are unable to return to work. As a thank you for your service, Social Security can expedite disability claims through our Wounded Warrior initiative if you became disabled while on active military service on or after October 1, 2001. Additionally, they can also expedite your disability claim if you have a VA Compensation Rating of 100% Permanent & Total. 

VA Disability benefits and Social Security disability benefits are different, and eligibility for one does not guarantee eligibility for the other, so Myers indicates you should consider applying for both.

Check out the new fact sheet “Social Security Disability and Veterans Affairs Disability -How do They Compare?”, or find that fact sheet and more at www.ssa.gov/pubs. Type “Veterans” in the filter box.

Additionally, visit www.ssa.gov/people/veterans/.