I really like the information on this board. I'm at the beginning of my MEB/PEB process. I'm a Continuation On Active Duty (COAD) Soldier. I was found unfit for duty in 2008 due to wounds I received in combat. I was authorized to come back to active duty, but I had to change my MOS and relieved of some of my NORMAL Soldier duties (i.e... modified PT tests, no longer authorized to deploy, stand for more than 20 min, walk for more than one mile, etc...). I have been under a P3 profile since I left WRAMC in 2008 and still considered unfit for duty. Just yesterday they made adjustments to that profile (restricting more activities). I have been on a very limited basis going to work upon completion of my post-op x4 days hospital stay, 30 days convalescent leave and 45 days limited duty. That was due to a complete hip joint replacement (second surgery replacing hip due to combat injury) back on 03 Feb of this year. As of today, I still am on a limited duty assignment from my unit primarily because the Dr. will not provide an additional time of limited duty, but my unit realized that I can only be at work for half a day. I'm over 20 years active and trying to get my MEB/PEB started so I may retire. Sorry for all the back story, but my actual question is should I file for SSDI prior to my MEB/PEB starting or receiving my VA rating? My gut tells me to file now, I talked to a SSDI lawyer who would not take my case until I had a 100% PT from the VA. I have buddies that got SSDI while on active duty prior to separation. Unfortunately they are not around for me to ask what I should do. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I'm not sure if I will get back pay, but I feel like I should. Again, thanks for any help anyone may provide.
~James~