Georgians who have suffered a serious injury or illness that has left them unable to work may qualify for Social Security disability benefits. In order to succeed on one of these claims, though, a disabled individual must meet certain federal requirements as laid out by the Social Security Administration. This involves showing that one’s medical condition is severe enough to be deemed a “disability,” as well as evidencing that one has the proper work history to qualify for SSD benefit. This process can be lengthy, and many claimants see their initial claims denied.
However, those who suffer from the most severe injuries and diseases may qualify for a compassionate allowance through the SSD system. A compassionate allowance is given when an individual suffers from a medical condition that is so severe that it is obvious that it is disabling. This allows the SSA to quickly identify those individuals who are most in need of SSD benefits and who, at a quick glance at objective medical evidence, obviously qualify under the SSD system’s standards.
The SSA has published a list of medical conditions that qualify for a compassionate allowance. Amongst them are certain cancers, especially those that are in advanced stages. Although a compassionate allowance is meant to speed up the process for those who are obviously disabled, those individuals still need to submit evidence that they meet the requirements under the compassionate allowance listings.
Even this process can face challenges, just as a normal SSD claim might. Therefore, to give one’s self the best possible chance of success on the first try, these severely disabled individuals may want to discuss their circumstances with an experienced legal professional who knows the ins and outs of the system. He or she may be able to help a disabled individual prepare a strong claim and assist them in recovering the compensation to which they are entitled.
Source: Social Security Administration, “Compassionate Allowances,” accessed on Feb. 27, 2017