The Social Security Administration has announced 52 new Compassionate Allowances conditions, primarily involving neurological disorders, cancers and rare diseases.  The Compassionate Allowances program expedites the process for disability decisions to ensure that individuals with serious disabilities receive their benefit decisions within days instead of waiting for months or years.

Social Security launched the Compassionate Allowances program in 2008 with a list of 50 diseases and conditions.  The latest announcement of 52 new conditions, which will become effective in August, will increase the total number of Compassionate Allowances conditions to 165.  There is a Complete List of Compassionate Allowance Conditions available at this link.

Additionally, starting April 21, 2012, adults who file for benefits online will have the option to electronically sign and submit their Authorization to Disclose Information to the Social Security Administration (Form SSA-827).  This will allow applicants to complete disability applications in an online session, rather than printing, signing, and mailing paper authorization forms to Social Security offices.

* The information contained in this Blog is intended for general information and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or an opinion of counsel.