VBA vs. SSA Benefits and Work

This training addresses the differences between disability benefits offered by the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) and the Social Security Administration (SSA). We will discuss:

  • VBA benefits: Disability Compensation and Disability Pension.
  • SSA benefits: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
  • The interplay between VBA and SSA benefits and how VBA benefits are affected by SSA benefits.
  • VBA program: Compensated Work Therapy (CWT).
  • SSA Work Incentive programs including Impairment Related Work Expense (IRWE), Trial Work Period (TWP), Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA), and Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE).
  • Public health insurance such as Medicaid and Medicare, and healthcare benefits offered by VBA.

As a result of this training, participants will be able to:

  • Identify the two disability benefits offered by the VBA and the two disability benefits offered by SSA.
  • Describe how criteria-based vs. needs-based VBA and SSA benefits impact each other.
  • Articulate the impact of work on each of these benefit programs and individual benefits received.

This training is appropriate for Veterans and those who serve Veterans.