People who apply for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits have medical conditions or injuries that are expected to stop them from being able to work to support themselves for at least a year or to result in death. These applications can take considerable time to work through the system, but not all applicants can safely wait for the benefits they need.
In some cases, the individual may have a condition that’s so serious that they may die before their application goes through the decision-making process. Because of that risk the Social Security Administration maintains a list of conditions that’s known as the Compassionate Allowance List.
What is the Compassionate Allowance List?
The Compassionate Allowance List is composed of conditions that are known to meet the standards for disability. They’re also serious enough that the person likely won’t be able to survive the application process.
The Compassionate Allowance List is maintained and updated on a regular basis. The public can submit conditions for consideration. From there, a determination is made about the suitability of the condition to be placed on the list.
How does the Compassionate Allowance List work?
The Compassionate Allowance List allows individuals who have been diagnosed with a condition on the list to be fast-tracked through the application process. In order for that fast-track process to be triggered, the applicant must include the condition in the application.
The electronic application process will automatically flag applications that contain a condition on the list. It’s critical that any application involving one of these conditions contains all applicable information. Providing medical records and anything else required can make the process go through as quickly as possible.
It may behoove individuals who need to apply for disability benefits to have someone on their side who can assist. Many cases have a high likelihood of denial, which means an appeal will be necessary. Having someone to help in this case is beneficial.