Narrowing a Topic

Research Paper

Sean C. Lambert

COM 156

January 12, 2014

Karen Nowak

Research Paper

On October 01, 2001, Social Security started a “Wounded Warrior Program” with the intention of expediting the processing of benefits for wounded warriors, “if the disability occurred while on active duty.” (Linebaugh, M. 2013) As you read, you will find controversy between what social security claims and how long wounded warriors have to wait for those benefits. A wounded warrior’s filing for Social Security Disability Income can be a long and tedious process from their initial application all the way to their final approval, and that is provided they are even approved for their benefits. A majority of wounded warriors filing for Social Security Disability Income have to wait in excess of two years, only to be denied benefits, and they are then forced to hire attorney. Understanding the process of applying for Social Security Disability Income will be beneficial to understanding the argument.

Applying for Social Security Disability Income Benefits

There are four ways a wounded warrior can apply for Social Security Disability Income benefits:

1. Apply Online- (www.ssa.gov/wounded warriors)

2. In Person- You can visit your nearest Social Security office.

3. By Mail- By mailing the application and supporting medical documentation to the nearest Social Security office.

4. By Phone- You can apply over the phone by calling 1-800-772-1213.

Submitting the Application

Before submitting your application, there are a few items you will need to submit along with it. The first document needed is either your original birth certificate or a certified copy. The second document needed is a copy of your Form DD 214, the form the military provides to personnel upon discharge from military service. The third document needed is proof of military pay. You will need to submit a LES (Leave and Earnings Statement), which is military’s version of a paycheck stub. The fourth document needed is Social Security Cards. You will need to provide your own, your spouse’s and any social security cards for any dependents. The fifth document you will need is a copy of your banking statements. Social Security needs a copy of your checking and savings account numbers to check for deposits to match your income. If you happen to be approved, they use your checking account to set up direct deposit for your benefits. The