The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains a Listing of Impairments. The list contains conditions that qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. Some of the conditions will automatically qualify for disability benefits.
Unfortunately, applying for SSD is challenging. Many applicants get a denial on the first try. But specific medical conditions will qualify for expedited approval.
To qualify for benefits, you will need to prove your disability. You’ll also need to meet the SSA’s conditions for approval. If you need help with your application, contact a Social Security Disability lawyer.
Which Conditions Do the Social Security Administration Automatically Approve?
You can find conditions that automatically qualify on the Compassionate Allowances list. The list contains over 200 diseases. These are medical conditions that automatically meet disability benefits standards.
Compassionate Allowances reduce the applicant’s waiting time. The listed conditions are very severe. Compassionate Allowances help the sufferer get benefits sooner.
You can check the Compassionate Allowances list for your condition. If it’s on the list, your application process will probably be faster.
Compassionate Allowances Conditions
Examples of Compassionate Allowances conditions include:
- Adult brain disorders
- ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease)
- Acute leukemia
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
- Stage IV breast cancer
- Inflammatory breast cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Small cell lung cancer
- Gallbladder cancer
- Muscular dystrophy
- Rare childhood disorders
How Long Does It Take to Get Benefits for Compassionate Allowances?
If you have a condition on the list, you only have to prove your diagnosis. You will not have to provide more information to qualify. Your claim should process within a month or two. Some people receive benefits in a few weeks. In comparison, many applicants wait several months to a year.
Although your benefits are not “automatic,” the SSA will move your application to the front of the line. If it’s clear that you have a Compassionate Allowances condition, you’ll get benefits as soon as possible.
Some factors can delay your claim. You might need more examinations or additional medical records. However, most Compassionate Allowances benefits come quickly.
Disability Benefits for Organ Transplants
If you have had to get an organ transplant, you should automatically qualify. You can get benefits for at least a year after your surgery. The qualifying transplants include:
- Heart transplant
- Kidney transplant
- Bone marrow transplant
- Stem cell transplant
- Liver transplant
- Lung transplant
You will need to prove the existence of your condition. You can do this through your medical records. The SSA will review your case after a year. They will look to see if you still meet the disability guidelines. (For a lung transplant, you can get benefits for up to three years.)
How Can You Avoid Getting Denied Disability Benefits?
Even if your condition automatically qualifies, you will need to provide medical records. The SSA must see that you have proof of your health status. If you don’t have proof, the administration will deny your claim.
Lack of documentation is a common reason applicants get denied. Make sure your records are thorough. If you need help, contact a Social Security Disability lawyer right away. Without enough evidence, you could miss out on the benefits you desperately need.
If you do get a denial letter, contact a lawyer. Your lawyer will look at why you did not receive benefits. They can help you provide the right information for your claim.
For a free legal consultation, call 404-400-4000
What Other Information Do You Need for Your Application?
There are two criteria you must meet to qualify for benefits:
- You must have earned enough work credits.
- You must meet the SSA’s definition of disability.
If you have a Compassionate Allowances condition, you only have to prove your disabling condition. However, you could get denied if you are working a certain amount. If you earn substantial gainful activity (SGA), the SSA will determine you can make enough money.
If you have a disabling condition that does not automatically qualify, you’ll need enough work credits. You can earn up to four work credits per year. You earn work credits from your yearly income.
If your application doesn’t contain enough information, you can get denied. Talk to a lawyer today for help improving your claim.
Does Your Condition Have to Be on the List?
Not necessarily. If your condition is not on the SSA’s list, they will compare it for a similar condition. If your condition is medically equivalent, you might receive benefits.
The SSA will consider how your condition impacts your ability to work. They’ll also look at how it affects your daily life.
Talk to a Social Security Disability Lawyer for Free Today
If a condition prevents you from working, you might qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. If you think your condition might automatically be eligible, you probably need benefits now. To improve your chances of approval, talk to a lawyer.
John Foy & Associates can help you with your claim. Our Social Security Disability lawyers have over 20 years of experience. We know what the Social Security Administration is looking for in an application.
Contact us today for a FREE consultation. We will not collect a fee unless we win your case. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to get started today.
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