The Social Security Administration (SSA) says it is dealing with a backlog of more than 800,000 claims for Social Security Disability (SSD) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. An average application is now processed in 353 days. That’s almost a full year!
That’s why it’s important to know about the Compassionate Allowances Program. This program allows for faster processing of claims for applicants who suffer from certain diseases and disabling medical conditions. If you are eligible to apply for benefits through this program, you may receive word about your claim within days or weeks instead of months or years.
To learn more about the SSA’s Compassionate Allowances Program, contact the Disparti Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers, P.A., today at our toll-free number or complete our online form.
We serve clients throughout Tampa, Holiday, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Port Charlotte, Fort Myers, Naples, Bonita Springs and all across Florida and the United States. We can put our knowledge and experience to work for you.
What is the Compassionate Allowances Program?
The Compassionate Allowances program expedites SSD and SSI claims for applicants whose medical conditions are so severe that they obviously meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability.
The SSA says an applicant is “disabled” if:
- The applicant cannot do work that he or she did previously;
- Because of the medical condition, the applicant can’t adjust to other work; and
- The applicant’s disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least 12 months or to result in death.
The program does not provide increased benefits. It simply speeds up the decision on a claim.
As of 2013, the Compassionate Allowances program applies to a total of 200 diseases and disorders. The lists includes cancers, adult brain disorders, early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, immune system conditions, rare genetic disorders affecting children and other disorders.
In 2011, the SSA eliminated the requirement to include work and education history in a benefits application under this program. The severity of eligible conditions often makes this information unnecessary, the SSA says.
When You Need a Quick SSDI or SSI Decision
On its website, the SSA says that individuals with Compassionate Allowances conditions may receive a decision on their claim in a matter of weeks instead of months or years.
An application can be delayed if the SSA requires a medical examination to obtain evidence to support the claim. The SSA also randomly selects applications to conduct quality assurance reviews of decisions. Either situation would delay a benefits decision and, in turn, payment of your benefits.
A Florida Compassionate Allowances claims lawyer who is experienced with SSD and SSI benefits applications can help you to avoid any delay-causing errors and pursue benefits on your behalf in an efficient and effective manner.
Contact a Florida Compassionate Allowances Claims Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one needs legal assistance with a Compassionate Allowances claim, call the Disparti Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers, P.A., today at our toll-free phone number or contact us online. Your initial consultation is free of charge. Please call right away for help securing the Social Security Disability benefits you need and deserve.