Episode 13:  Louisville social security disability attorney Trevor Smith discusses several of the ways he and his firm are helping veterans to get additional support, beyond VA benefits.  If you’re a vet or know someone who is suffering from PTSD or other issues, this information may be able to help them.  Please consider sharing it.

Trevor has helped many veterans over the past 10 years.  Some veterans may have experienced mental trauma, which eventually lead to their being homeless.  Maybe they haven’t worked in a while.  There may be an opportunity to get SSI (Supplemental Security Income) benefits for them.  Other veterans may have been working, but simply need help due to their injuries.  It may be possible to file for SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) benefits. 

Veterans can receive VA benefits and social security benefits, at the same time.  However, the VA benefits may provide enough income that they are ineligible for SSI, but SSDI is still open to them.  This is for either service-related or non-service-related disability.  It’s important to understand it’s not automatic that you’ll be eligible for SSDI, but those VA medical records will be very helpful in proving your case.

The Invisible Injuries

Many of the veterans Trevor’s helped are dealing with psychological, mental and/or emotional problems often related to their experiences resulting in PTSD.  Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is one of those invisible injuries you won’t be able to see.  However, it can be devastating to a veteran who is trying to cope with PTSD and other issues.

There are other situations including pulmonary issues due to time spent breathing contaminated air.  Other conditions, including cancer, may also qualify the veteran for SSDI benefits.

It’s about the Symptoms, not the Experience

Veterans suffering from PTSD don’t want to be forced to relive the experience during the hearing.  The judge wants to focus on the symptoms currently preventing you from working.  It’s not the diagnosis, or its effects, it’s the severity of the symptoms that matter.

Some common PTSD symptoms may include:

• Hyper-Vigilance preventing the veteran from focusing on tasks
• Difficulty in social situations and dealing with co-workers, managers or supervisors
• Startle Response caused by loud noises
• Flashbacks leading to an inability to concentrate or function effectively

Some people dealing with PTSD have found the telephone hearings may be less stressful.  They are able to have the hearing in comfortable, familiar surroundings.  Trevor will do everything possible to explain the process and who’s going to be involved.  This explanation can help to prepare the client so the process is easier to get through and move forward.

We want take a minute to thank you for your service.  There are programs available to help you.  If you’re considering filing for social security disability or SSI, you can contact Smith and Wax at (502) 581-1133.  The website is www.SmithAndWaxLaw.com.

Important Disclaimers:  The information provided on this podcast is for general informational purposes only.  It should not be construed as legal advice and does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.  You should seek the advice of an attorney for guidance related to your specific situation.  This podcast maybe freely shared, but may not be the modified or edited in any way.  This is an attorney advertisement.  Principal office is located in Louisville, KY.  Co-host Jim Ray is a non-attorney spokesperson.