Generally, evaluating each claim takes several months or even years. Therefore, the SSA has found a way to speed up the process for some cases through the Compassionate Allowances Program.
The Compassionate Allowances Program was designed to fast-track the claiming process. Therefore, applicants can receive in no time the due benefits for their conditions that are known to cause serious or life-threatening disabilities.
The said Compassionate Allowances Program was introduced in 2008 with only about 50 diseases and conditions. Later on, it included some 100 conditions and now lists a total of 165 conditions.
A spokesperson from the agency, Diana Varela, said that diseases included on the Compassionate Allowances Program are so severe that they do not need to obtain an applicant’s complete employment history just to make a resolution. That is how the process is made faster.
Meanwhile, the SSA is said to be considering and evaluating some more conditions to be added to the program’s list.
Moving on with its application process, applying for the Compassionate Allowances Program is the same as applying for general disability benefits. But, once the agency determines that the applicant’s condition qualifies for the said program, the process or approval becomes much quicker.
Additionally, an applicant can file the claim online. Therefore, they never have to physically appear before the agency’s office. However, of course, an applicant needs to provide the following as required by the agency:
General Information
• Name
• Date of birth
• Social security number
• Name of spouse and children (for married applicants)
• Bank account information
• Contact number / address
Medical Information
• Name
• Address
• Contact number of doctors
• Name of clinic or hospital where you receive treatment
• Employer’s information
• Names of medicines you have taken or are currently taking
• Medical history
To make a successful long-term disability claim, make sure that your claim is supported by the above-said documents and information as a ready reference. Also, a Los Angeles long term disability lawyer suggested to have your insurance policy documents reviewed by a professional to determine your eligibility. A consistent medical treatment for the disability of medical condition can also be a great help in supporting your evidences and in determining the policy’s status.
