Receiving approval for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can feel like it takes forever. For people with severe, disabling medical conditions, time is essential. You may not be able to afford to watch the days go by when you need help right now.
Although the wheels of government turn slowly, the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognized the issues that people with serious medical conditions can face when waiting to hear about their SSDI application. That is why the SSA created the compassionate allowance program in 2012. This program expedites the approval process for people with certain medical conditions.
Qualifying for compassionate allowance
To qualify for the compassionate allowance program, you must meet two requirements. First, your medical condition must be on the compassionate allowance list. Some of these conditions include:
- ALS
- Adrenal cancer
- Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease
- Thyroid cancer
The second requirement is that you must show that you have an advanced diagnosis at the time of your application.
A quicker process still requires patience
Don’t get your hopes up too high for a swift resolution. The SSA isn’t going to immediately approve your application as soon as you can meet the requirements of the compassionate allowance program. Even if they provide you with quick approval, it will still take time for your benefits to take effect. The most significant advantage of receiving SSDI approval is that it can open the door to getting other benefits that can provide you with almost immediate support.
It’s important to apply for SSDI benefits as soon as possible. That way, if there’s a problem with your application or if it gets denied for any reason, you can address the problem sooner rather than later. A skilled legal professional can help ensure that you put together the strongest possible claim for the benefits you deserve.
