Certain illnesses can make it difficult for someone to earn a living. There are times when a serious medical condition or physical impairment is severe to the point where it disables the victim, leaving him or her unable to pay for basic needs. In these situations, it may be appropriate for the individual to apply for disability benefits through the Social Security Administration.
Applying for disability benefits can be a long and arduous process. Many applicants are not successful on their initial attempts, and it can take months or longer to secure benefits. However, there are certain types of particularly serious medical conditions that can expedite the application process. If you believe you may qualify for these benefits, you may want to speak with an attorney to determine if it is possible to hasten the process to allow you to get the benefits you need faster.
Compassionate Allowances Program
The Compassionate Allowances Program provides an expedited application process for those who have particularly serious medical conditions or terminal illnesses. This allows deserving applicants to get the money they may need for emergent concerns, medical care and end-of-life support. There are specific illnesses on this list, and recently the SSA added more. The newest additions include:
- Desmoplastic small round cell tumors
- GM1 Gangliosidosis, both infantile and juvenile forms
- Nicolaides-Baraister Syndrome
- Rubinstein-Tybai Syndrome
- Secondary adenocarcinoma of the brain
This program allows the SSA to quickly identify applicants who are deserving of a prompt response due to the nature of their disability. If you or a loved one has a grave illness and you need disability benefits as soon as possible, you may find it helpful to learn if you could be eligible for an expedited application process. Working with an experienced New York attorney from the very beginning can help you understand what steps are necessary to obtain benefits as quickly as possible.
The help you deserve
If you are applying for disability benefits, there is a lot on the line for you. You need financial support if you are unable to work and earn a living because of your current medical condition. One of the most important first steps for you may include learning about eligibility requirements and the Compassionate Allowances program.
You do not have to walk through this process alone. There is significant benefit in working with an attorney experienced in Social Security disability claims. Before you complete any paperwork or move forward, it may behoove you to seek an assessment of your case and an explanation of the legal options available to you.