What is a Social Security Compassionate Allowance?

A Compassionate Allowance is a program designed by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to expedite the application process for individuals with severe medical conditions. These conditions are so serious that the SSA has determined that applicants with them meet the criteria for disability and can be approved for benefits more quickly.

The SSA has a list of Compassionate Allowance conditions, which includes over 200 specific diseases and disorders, such as certain cancers, neurological conditions, and rare diseases. If you have one of these conditions, you can get expedited processing, which may help you receive benefits faster.

How Do I Qualify for a Compassionate Allowance?

To be eligible for the Compassionate Allowance program, you must meet the following criteria:

• Diagnosed with a Condition on the Compassionate Allowance List: Your condition must be included in the SSA’s list of qualifying conditions. Some of the most common conditions include early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, certain types of cancer, Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS), and rare genetic disorders.
• Meet SSA’s Disability Criteria: Even though your condition may qualify for expedited processing, you still need to meet the SSA’s definition of disability. This means you must be unable to work due to the severity of your condition, and it must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

How to Apply for Social Security Compassionate Allowance

The process of applying for a Compassionate Allowance is similar to the regular application for SSDI or SSI. However, there are specific steps that can help you receive expedited approval:

Apply Online or In Person

• Online Application: The easiest way to apply for SSDI or SSI, including through the Compassionate Allowance program, is to use the SSA’s online application portal at www.ssa.gov. This allows you to complete the process from the comfort of your home.
• In-Person or Over the Phone: You can also apply by visiting your local Social Security office or by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. If you have trouble with the online process, a representative can assist you.

Provide Medical Documentation

The most crucial part of your Compassionate Allowance application is submitting detailed medical documentation that clearly shows the severity of your condition. This includes:

• Medical Records: Provide complete and up-to-date records from your treating physician(s), including test results, imaging reports, and hospital records.
• Diagnosis: Your doctor should confirm the specific diagnosis of a condition that qualifies for the Compassionate Allowance program.
• Treatment History: Include any treatments you have undergone, medications, and notes on how your condition has progressed over time.

Make sure that the medical evidence you provide clearly supports your eligibility for a Compassionate Allowance, as the SSA uses this information to make a quick determination.

Include the Compassionate Allowance Code

When completing your application, you should indicate that you are applying for a Compassionate Allowance. On the application form, you can note your condition and its corresponding code from the SSA’s list of Compassionate Allowances. This helps the SSA identify your case as a priority for expedited processing.

Use Your “My Social Security” Account

You can use your My Social Security account to track the status of your claim and ensure that all the required documents have been received by the SSA. This online account also allows you to view your benefit status and receive updates about your application.

What Happens After You Apply for a Compassionate Allowance?

Once you apply and indicate that you are seeking a Compassionate Allowance, the SSA will review your application based on the medical evidence you provide. Since these conditions are considered to be severe enough to automatically qualify for disability benefits, your case will be flagged for expedited processing.

• Expedited Processing: If your condition qualifies for the Compassionate Allowance, the SSA will process your claim more quickly than standard disability claims. Many applicants for Compassionate Allowances are approved within weeks rather than months.
• Approval: If you are approved, you will begin receiving your SSDI or SSI benefits faster than other applicants. You will receive a Notice of Award, which outlines the amount of your benefits and when they will begin.

What if My Compassionate Allowance Claim is Denied?

In some cases, a Compassionate Allowance application may be denied, particularly if there is insufficient medical evidence to support your claim. If your application is denied, you have the right to:

• Request Reconsideration: If your claim is denied, you can ask the SSA to reconsider their decision. This process involves a review of your case, including any new evidence you provide.
• Request a Hearing: If the reconsideration does not result in approval, you can request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). The ALJ will review your case and any new evidence before making a final decision.