Until recent years, all Social Security Disability claims were treated equally. The most severe of claims were processed just like those that were less severe in nature. Someone suffering from a life-threatening disease would be treated the same way as someone suffering from chronic back pain, and would have to wait just as long to have their Social Security Disability benefits approved by the Social Security Administration (SSA). After much public outcry, the SSA created the Compassionate Allowance Program, which allowed applicants with certain medical conditions to be approved for disability benefits in a matter of weeks rather than a matter of months or years.
What Conditions Qualify Under the Compassionate Allowance Program?
In order to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits under the Compassionate Allowance Program you must suffer from one of 113 conditions that have been determined as qualifying an applicant for processing under this program by the SSA. For a list of these conditions, please visit the compassionate allowance page.
How Long Does it Take for a Compassionate Allowances Claim to Be Processed and Approved?
Ideally, a person qualifying for Social Security Disability benefits under the Compassionate Allowances Program should qualify in a matter of just a few weeks. Ideally, benefits could start within a month. It is important to note, however, that the claim forms must be filled out properly and that one must furnish the SSA with the proper medical evidence in order to be approved for benefits. As such, it may be in your best interests to consult with a Social Security Disability attorney prior to filing a disability claim under the Compassionate Allowances Program.
