Social Security can aid injured veterans

By Michael J. Astrue

Social Security Commissioner

With Memorial Day approaching, I think it's important to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. We at Social Security honor the heroism and courage of our military service members and mourn for those who have given their lives in defense of freedom. It is also important to recognize those service members who are still with us, especially those who have been wounded.

That's why I'd like to take this opportunity to remind readers that military service members receive expedited processing of their disability applications from Social Security.

In fact, under an agreement initiated by Social Security, the Department of Defense now transmits information to us that allows us to quickly identify military personnel injured in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.

The expedited process is available for any military service members who become disabled during active duty on or after Oct. 1, 2001, regardless of where the disability occurs. Depending on the situation, some family members of military personnel also may be able to receive benefits, including dependent children and spouses.

If you, or someone you know, were wounded while on active duty in the military, find out more about what Social Security can do for you by visiting our website designed specifically for you: www.socialsecurity.gov/woundedwarriors.

There, you will find answers to a number of commonly asked questions.