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COMPASSIONATE ALLOWANCES

Social Security has identified more than 200 diseases that qualify for a "compassionate allowance" of disability benefits. Being diagnosed with one of these diseases will usually expedite an award of benefits. These conditions include, for example, many forms of cancer and auto immune disorders, as well as other conditions. Some diseases on the list may be well known.  Others, such as the recently added HOYERAAL-HREIDARSSON SYNDROME, may be virtually unheard of by the public.

If a claimant has a disease that qualifies for a compassionate allowance, how does it affect his claim?  The claim will usually be expedited.  Once Social Security is able to verify from medical sources that the claimant actually has the disorder, a benefit may be awarded quickly.  How long the process takes depends on such factors as how long it takes doctors to respond to requests for medical records. The claimant may speed up this process by asking their doctor to provide information quickly to Social Security.  We have seen compassionate allowance claims approved in as few as 21 days from the date of application.

Will Social Security notify me if my claim is being expedited?  No.  However, Social Security may contact you to get more medical information, such as the name, address or telephone number of your doctor or more details about your condition, symptoms or treatment.

If I am found to have a disease that qualifies for compassionate allowance, will I get more money?  No, you will not be paid extra money.  You would get the regular amount of money to which you would otherwise be entitled because of a disability.

Is the application process different for persons with a compassionate allowance illness?  No, you would follow the regular application process. On the application, however, you should state that you have a particular illness and that you believe it may qualify for a compassionate allowance.  A list of compassionate allowance illnesses can be found at http://www.ssa.gov/compassionateallowances/conditions.htm

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This website is not published by or affiliated with the US Social Security Administration.  The Forsythe Firm has produced this site as information only. This is not intended as legal advice for any particular claim, situation or circumstance.

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