The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a program called the Compassionate Allowances (CAL) initiative, which aims to expedite the processing of disability claims for people with severe medical conditions. The CAL program identifies certain medical conditions that are so severe that they meet the criteria for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. Below, read about the key points to know about the SSDI Compassionate Allowance List.
What Is the CAL Program?
The CAL program was introduced to fast-track the disability claims process for those with specific medical conditions that are easily recognizable and clearly meet the SSA's disability standards.
Coverage of Medical Conditions
The CAL program covers a wide range of medical conditions, including various types of cancer, rare genetic disorders, neurological disorders, and certain organ diseases. The list is regularly updated by the SSA based on input from medical experts, advocacy groups, and the public.
Expedited Processing
If an applicant's medical condition is on the CAL list, their disability claim will be flagged for expedited processing. This means that the SSA will prioritize the evaluation of the claim, potentially leading to a quicker decision and faster access to benefits.
Supporting Medical Evidence Must be Provided
Even if a medical condition is on the CAL list, it is still necessary to provide medical evidence to support the disability claim. This includes medical records, test results, and other relevant documentation that demonstrates the severity and impact of the condition on the applicant's ability to work.
Consultation with Experts
In some cases, the SSA may request additional information or consult with medical experts to ensure the accurate evaluation of the claim. This process is carried out to determine if the medical condition meets the SSA's criteria for disability benefits.
Conditions Not Listed
If a claimant's medical condition is not on the CAL list, it does not automatically mean they are not eligible for benefits. The CAL list is designed to speed up the claims process for certain conditions, but people with other medical conditions can still apply for benefits through the regular evaluation process.
It's worth noting that the CAL program specifically relates to the SSA's disability programs, SSDI and SSI. Each program has its own eligibility requirements beyond the CAL conditions, such as work history for SSDI and financial need for SSI.
For detailed and up-to-date information on the SSDI Compassionate Allowance List and the disability benefits application process, it is advisable to visit the official SSA website or consult with a Social Security attorney who can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation. For more information, contact a Social Security Disability attorney near you.
Share14 June 2023
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