An Overview of Social Security Compassionate Allowances
In an effort to decrease wait times for specific Social Security disability benefit applicants, the Social Security Administration (SSA) implemented the Compassionate Allowance Initiative. Here, Social Security disability attorney Jeffrey Scholnick explains the Compassionate Allowance Initiative and how it affects certain Social Security disability applicants.
The History of Social Security Compassionate Allowances
Prior to 2008, Social Security disability benefit applications were reviewed on a first come, first served basis. Critics of this process argued that individuals with particularly disabling or severe conditions should have a way to expedite their application’s approval. In response to this, the Social Security Administration (SSA) began the Compassionate Allowance Initiative in 2008, which allowed certain individuals the ability to have their application reviewed in a timelier manner.
How the Compassionate Allowance List Is Determined
As of 2018, more than 200 conditions have been placed on the Compassionate Allowances list, meaning that anyone who has one of these conditions is eligible for an expedited Social Security disability application review. Many conditions that are considered to be a Compassionate Allowance are aggressive forms of cancer, adult brain disorders and some rare disorders that affect children.
The SSA uses feedback from public hearings, individuals, medical and scientific professionals, research from the National Institute of Health (NIH) and comments received by Social Security and Disability Determination service providers to determine the conditions to be placed on the Compassionate Allowances list. If you believe a specific condition should be added to the list, you may request that the SSA consider the condition here.
How to Expedite Your Compassionate Allowance Claim
Those who have a condition that is included on the Compassionate Allowances list need to have their treating doctors complete any additional paperwork specifically clarifying how the patient fits within the Allowance. An attorney can often help provide forms to doctors or explain to a client how to get their claim expedited for a timelier review. Those with a condition considered to be a Compassionate Allowance can see their application reviewed and processed much quicker than it can take for a standard application. This helps to ensure that those who are severely disabled receive the benefits they require as quickly and efficiently as possible.
How a Social Security Disability Attorney Can Further Assist in Expediting Your Claim
When an individual is prevented from working due to a disability, it is essential to begin receiving benefits as quickly as possible, and the Compassionate Allowances Initiative is just one of the ways applicants can decrease their approval wait time. Social Security disability attorney Jeff Scholnick is dedicated to helping those who are no longer able to work receive the benefits they require. With the assistance of Scholnick Law, applicants can ensure their claim is completed accurately and with all the documentation the SSA requires to process your application. To begin the application process for Social Security disability benefits, do not wait—contact Scholnick Law today to get started.