You're unable to work due to a disabling condition, and the bills are piling up. You need your Social Security disability benefits approved as soon as possible, but you've heard the process can take months or even years. The thought of waiting that long for a decision is overwhelming, especially when you're already dealing with the physical and emotional challenges of your disability.
At Phillip M. Hendry Attorney at Law, we understand the stress and financial strain of filing for disability benefits. Our experienced Louisiana disability lawyer is committed to helping clients get their claims approved as quickly as possible. While every case is unique, there are several strategies we can use to expedite your disability claim and get you the benefits you need to move forward with your life.
Compassionate Allowances Program
The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers a fast-track process called the Compassionate Allowances program for applicants with certain severe conditions that meet the disability standards. The program allows the SSA to quickly identify and approve claims for disabilities most likely to qualify, often within weeks rather than months.
Some conditions that may qualify for a compassionate allowance include:
- Acute leukemia
- Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS)
- Pancreatic cancer
- Early-onset Alzheimer's disease
- Malignant multiple sclerosis
Over 250 conditions currently qualify for expedited processing under the Compassionate Allowances program. If your condition is on this list, our Louisiana disability lawyer can help ensure your claim is flagged for fast tracking. We'll work with you to gather the necessary medical evidence and submit it to the SSA along with your application.
Even if your condition is not on the compassionate allowances list, you may still qualify for expedited processing if your disability is severe or advanced. We can review your medical records and work with your health care providers to make a compelling case for fast-tracking your claim.
Terminal Illness Cases
If you have been diagnosed with a terminal illness, you may be eligible for expedited processing of your disability claim. The SSA defines a terminal illness as a medical condition that is untreatable and expected to result in death.
To qualify for fast tracking based on a terminal illness, you must provide medical evidence that confirms your diagnosis and prognosis. This may include:
- A statement from your doctor indicating that your condition is terminal
- Medical records documenting your diagnosis and treatment
- Hospice or palliative care documentation, if applicable
Our Louisiana disability lawyer can help you gather the necessary medical evidence and submit it to the SSA along with your claim. We can also follow up with the SSA to ensure your claim is processed quickly. We know that time is of the essence in these cases, and we'll do everything we can to get you the benefits you need as soon as possible.
Dire Need Situations
Sometimes, the SSA may expedite a disability claim if the applicant faces a dire need situation. This may include:
- An imminent risk of homelessness
- An inability to obtain necessary medical care
- A lack of access to food or other basic necessities
If you are facing a dire need situation, it's essential to let the SSA know as soon as possible. Our Louisiana disability lawyer can help you document your circumstances and request expedited claim processing. We can also connect you with local resources and support services to help you meet your basic needs while your claim is being processed.
Other Strategies for Speeding Up Your Claim
In addition to the fast-track SSDI processes outlined above, there are several other steps you can take to help speed up your disability claim:
- Ensure your application is complete and accurate. Missing or incorrect information can delay processing.
- Provide detailed medical records and supporting documentation. The more evidence you can submit with your initial application, the better.
- Follow up with the SSA regularly. Our law firm can check on the status of your claim on your behalf.
- Consider requesting a hearing. An appeal hearing can help with approval if your initial claim was initially denied. However, it will add time to the process.
At Phillip M. Hendry Attorney at Law, we know how important it is to get your disability claim approved as quickly as possible. Our Louisiana disability lawyer has helped countless individuals fast-track their SSDI applications and secure the benefits they need to move forward with their lives. We'll work to build a strong case and explore every available option to expedite your claim.
If you're considering filing for disability or have already submitted a claim, we'd be happy to review your case and discuss your options for expediting the process. We're here to help you get the benefits you need as quickly as possible so that you can focus on your health and well-being.