Monday, July 7, 2008

Expediting SSD Cases

It takes a relatively long time before a decision is made on application for Social Security Disability benefits. In the mean time, because the claimant cannot work and has no income, savings become depleted quickly, oftentimes with dire results. There may be a silver lining under such circumstances.

The Social Security Administration (the “SSA”) is supposed to give priority to certain types of claims. For example, claimants with a terminal illness are supposed to be given top priority. Also, what are referred to as “dire need” cases are also supposed to receive immediate attention.

I represent a claimant whose financial circumstances became so poor that foreclosure papers were filed against him. On June 16, 2008, I provided a copy of the foreclosure papers to the SSA. Two weeks later I received a telephone call advising me that the claimant’s application had been approved, and one week after that I received the benefit check.

There are other circumstances that can qualify for expediting claim processing. If your situation becomes perilous, the SSA should disclose if it qualifies for expedited treatment.

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