A condition such as Angioimmunoblastic T-cell Lymphoma can impact your life in many ways. For example, if you have Angioimmunoblastic T-cell Lymphoma, you may be unable to work.
However, to help ensure you continue receiving an income, you can apply for social security disability benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA). Typically, there is a five-month waiting period to receive benefits after the SSA approves an application.
The SSA offers something called the Compassionate Allowance Program (CAP) that offers disability benefits applicants with the possibility of getting their application fast-tracked if approved. In other words, compassionate allowances offer some disability benefits applicants a means of skipping this typical five-month wait period. The following overview will cover how someone with Angioimmunoblastic T-cell Lymphoma may demonstrate they qualify for a compassionate allowance.
What is Angioimmunoblastic T-Cell Lymphoma?
Angioimmunoblastic T-cell Lymphoma (AITL) is a type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which is a cancer that affects the lymphatic system. Angioimmunoblastic T-cell Lymphoma involves the proliferation of abnormal T-cells in the lymph nodes, spleen, and other organs.
AITL is relatively rare and tends to occur in older adults. Symptoms of AITL may include swollen lymph nodes, fever, fatigue, weight loss, and skin rash. Treatment options for AITL may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and stem cell transplant. And, the prognosis for AITL varies depending on the stage of the disease and the response to treatment.
What Is A Compassionate Allowance?
Compassionate allowances let the Social Security Administration (SSA) expedite the processing of disability claims for people who are suffering from severe disabilities or terminal illnesses. The goal of compassionate allowances is to get benefits to these individuals as quickly as possible, rather than making them wait for a decision on their claim. To be eligible for a compassionate allowance, a person must be suffering from a condition that is listed on the SSA's compassionate allowance list. If you believe you may be eligible for a compassionate allowance, you can apply for benefits online, by phone, or in person at your local SSA office.
Someone with Angioimmunoblastic T-cell Lymphoma might be able to qualify for a compassionate allowance. However, in order to do so, the applicant must show their condition meets the requirements in 13.05D of the SSA’s Blue Book. The Blue Book is the SSA’s manual containing and explaining the conditions that the SSA deems as qualifying for disability benefits. The SSA uses the Blue Book as a resource to help them determine eligibility for and qualify someone for these benefits under their Compassionate Allowance Program (CAP).
Medical Evidence For Angioimmunoblastic T-Cell Lymphoma
In terms of the relationship between Angioimmunoblastic T-Cell Lymphoma and disability benefits approval, medical and other evidence is of the utmost importance. If someone with Angioimmunoblastic T-Cell Lymphoma is seeking a compassionate allowance, they will likely need to provide the SSA with evidence confirming that they meet the Blue Book’s requirements and criteria. Forms of evidence someone with Angioimmunoblastic T-Cell Lymphoma may need to provide include:
- Imaging tests
- Biopsy analysis
- Pathology reports
- Surgery reports
- Records detailing treatment
- Clinical history
Get Help With Your Angioimmunoblastic T-Cell Lymphoma Claim
Although Angioimmunoblastic T-Cell Lymphoma (AITL) is somewhat rare, it can be aggressive. Thus, receiving disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) may play a critical role in the quality of life of someone unable to work due to AITL.
It is important to be aware that you do not need to submit an application to the SSA alone. More specifically, if your goal is to prove that you deserve a compassionate allowance, you may benefit from coordinating with a lawyer who can help you present the strongest possible case. For more information, complete the Free Case Evaluation on this page to get connected with an independent, participating attorney who subscribes to the website.
