Who Qualifies for Expedited SSDI?

There are several programs and criteria under which SSDI claims may be fast-tracked:

1. Compassionate Allowances (CAL)

This program is designed for applicants with serious or terminal illnesses. The SSA has a list of conditions that qualify for expedited processing under CAL, including:

• ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease)
• Certain types of aggressive cancers
• Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease
• Rare genetic disorders

If your condition is on the Compassionate Allowances list, your application may be processed in as little as a few weeks.

2. Presumptive Disability (PD)

If you clearly meet SSA’s disability criteria, you may qualify for presumptive disability payments while your case is still under review. This is often granted for:

• Total blindness or deafness
• Amputation of two limbs
• Bed confinement due to illness
• Low birthweight in infants

You can receive benefits for up to 6 months before a final decision is made.

3. Dire Need Cases

You might also receive expedited handling if you are facing dire circumstances, such as:

• Homelessness
• Lack of food or medical care
• Imminent eviction or foreclosure

In these cases, you or your representative must notify SSA and provide documentation of the urgent situation.

4. Terminal Illness (TERI) Program

The TERI program applies to applicants with terminal illnesses. These cases receive immediate attention and are prioritized through every stage of the process. SSA identifies TERI cases based on medical records, keywords in applications, or alerts from doctors or attorneys.

How to Request Expedited Processing

To improve your chances of faster SSDI processing in Alabama:

• Submit complete medical records at the time of application.
• Clearly state your diagnosis and include documentation that shows urgency.
• Highlight any qualifying conditions from the CAL or TERI list.
• If you're in a financial emergency, include letters from shelters, eviction notices, utility shut-off warnings, or doctors’ notes.

A disability attorney can help identify which expedited path applies to your case and present the necessary evidence.

How Long Does Expedited SSDI Take?

If approved under Compassionate Allowances or TERI, you may receive a decision in two to six weeks, compared to the typical 3 to 6 months or longer. Presumptive disability payments can begin within days of approval, although they are temporary until SSA makes a final determination.

What If I Don’t Qualify for Expedited SSDI?

Even if you don’t qualify for fast-track processing, there are still ways to avoid unnecessary delays:

• Double-check your application for errors.
• Submit all requested documents promptly.
• Follow up regularly through your SSA account or attorney.
• Respond quickly to SSA exam requests or letters.