Did you know that there are 100 diseases and medical conditions that may qualify you or a loved one to receive Social Security disability benefits more quickly than other applicants–without having to go through the often-taxing and long-lasting application process?
It’s true.
Compassionate Allowances: Disability Benefits
The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines Compassionate Allowances as a system to swiftly identify diseases and other medical conditions that, by their nature, meet Social Security’s standards for disability benefits. This program is crucial for applicants with conditions so severe that they obviously meet disability standards.
The Ever-Growing CAL List
Per the agency: “Compassionate Allowances (CAL) are a way of quickly identifying diseases and other medical conditions that invariably qualify under the Listing of Impairments based on minimal objective medical information. Compassionate Allowances allow Social Security to quickly target the most obviously disabled individuals for allowances based on objective medical information that we can obtain quickly.”
Initially launched in December 2007, the Compassionate Allowances List (CAL) has been continually updated, most recently with 12 new cardiovascular conditions. The inclusion of these conditions means qualified applicants can bypass the more lengthy work history review typically required for disability benefits.
The Impact of Compassionate Allowances on the Application Process
Michael J. Astrue, the Commissioner of Social Security, emphasizes the SSA’s duty to swiftly award benefits to those who are clearly eligible. The Compassionate Allowances initiative is a testament to the agency’s commitment to efficiency and responsiveness. “We have an obligation to award benefits quickly to people whose medical conditions are so serious they clearly meet our disability standards,” said Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security. “We are now able to do precisely that for 100 severe conditions. By definition, these illnesses are so severe that we don’t need to fully develop the applicant’s work history to make a decision. As a result, Social Security has eliminated this part of the application process for people who have a condition on the list, and we can award benefits much more quickly.”
Explore the Comprehensive List of CAL Conditions
For those interested in seeing the full range of conditions covered, the SSA provides a complete list of Compassionate Allowances conditions on their website. This list is an essential resource for applicants and advocates alike.
Community Feedback: Your Voice Matters
Which conditions do you believe should be added to the SSA’s Compassionate Allowances list? Are there any that you feel do not belong? Your insights are invaluable in shaping a fair and equitable list that truly reflects the needs of those with severe disabilities.
Professional Advocacy for Your Disability Benefits
Navigating the CAL can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re seeking assistance with your Social Security Disability benefits, the experienced lawyers at Newlin Disability are here to help.
Social Security Office in Terre Haute, IN: Understanding CAL for Quicker Benefits
Comprehending the Compassionate Allowances program is critical for those seeking to expedite their Social Security Disability benefits application. It represents a crucial pathway for those with severe conditions to receive the support they need without unnecessary delay.
View the complete list of Compassionate Allowances conditions here.
Which conditions do you think are missing from the Social Security Administration’s list of compassionate allowances? Are there any conditions that you think don’t belong on the list ?
If you need help with your Social Security Disability benefits, contact the Social Security Disability lawyers at Newlin Disability.
