Are you looking for ways to speed up your disability claim?
Applying for Social Security disability benefits can be a long, exhausting process.
The SSA typically takes a few months to review applications. Months that, if you can’t work and earn a living, can be highly stressful.
However, there is a group of health conditions that the SSA often moves to the “fast lane.”
These impairments are known as presumptive disabilities and allow claimants to access benefits faster.
In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about presumptive disability. From its core benefits, typical impairments that qualify, and how long would it take for you to obtain approval.
What Is Presumptive Disability and How Can It Enhance Your Case?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) takes about 3 to 5 months to review applications for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
That time is often due to the large number of applications they receive each month. The waiting can be nerve-wracking for anyone, especially if you are unable to work due to your disability.
While there are no ways to cut through the line and get ahead, some applicants might be able to access immediate review or direct approval.
The SSA considers some conditions and impairments as “presumed” or easy to identify.
The number one reason that draws down a disability claim is that the SSA employees must verify you have the impairment you are applying for. When your condition is “presumed,” the process moves on much more swiftly.
Conditions Considered a Presumptive Disability
There are several health conditions and impairments that can grant you immediate access to SSDI or SSI. These are some of the most common presumptive disabilities:
- Total deafness or blindness
- Amputated leg(s) at the hip
- Down syndrome
- HIV or AIDS
- Bed confinement — or immobility without a wheelchair, walker, or crutches.
- A spinal cord injury
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Chronic kidney failure (end-stage renal disease)
- An intellectual disability or neurological impairment that hinders performing self-care independently
- A stroke that occurred in the past three months and still causes problems walking or using arms and hands
- Terminal illness with a life expectancy of less than six months
4 Benefits of Applying for SSDI with Presumptive Disability
Presumptive disability has many benefits for applicants, from direct access to benefits to the chance of securing life-long benefits.
Let’s explore some of these advantages:
Secure Benefits Instantly (No Waiting Period)
The most appealing benefit of presumptive disability is no waiting period.
Disability claims tend to last about 5 months, and that’s when everything goes smoothly.
If you are unable to work due to your disability and bills are starting to pile up, every day counts.
When applying for a presumptive disability, claimants usually start receiving monthly payments right away.
A Simpler and Smooth Application Process
Besides not having a long waiting period, the presumptive disability claim process is much more straightforward (and stress-free).
About 70% of applicants for regular Social Security disability claims are rejected in the first instance. They must then apply again or attend a court hearing to prove their disability before an administrative law judge.
Establishing your disability hinders your daily activities and your ability to perform your job can slow things down.
Since the criteria for presumptive disability are well-defined, you don’t have to jump through hoops to prove you have an impairment. That means less paperwork, a shorter application period, and regained peace of mind.
Might Secure Lifetime Benefits
Another significant advantage of presumptive disability is that you might secure benefits for life.
Most Social Security disability benefits end once your condition improves and you can return to work.
Every case is different, but typically, claimants with a long-term presumptive disability receive benefits for life.
Can Return to Work (Without Losing Benefits)
With most disabilities or health conditions, benefits stop once the claimant can return to work.
This worries many applicants, as returning to work presents many benefits, such as improved rehabilitation or helping them integrate back into society.
With a presumptive disability, you might get to return to work in some capacity and still receive Social Security benefits.
How Long Does it Take to Get Approval for Presumptive Disability?
The SSA typically approves presumptive disability claims immediately.
Therefore, after applying, you should start receiving the benefit within a few days or weeks.
These monthly payments serve as a lifeline until the SSA reviews and makes a decision about your case.
After reviewing your application, if you qualify, you’ll keep receiving the benefits. If you are found not to have a qualifying disability, you will be asked to return the money.
Working with Indiana disability attorneys can help you build a strong case and secure your benefits for the long run.
Professional lawyers will review your case and tell you if you are eligible for presumptive disability. Additionally, they will file your case and handle all communications with the SSA. That way, you can use your time to focus on your recovery.
Final Thoughts
Presumptive disability can streamline your SSDI or SSI application, enabling you to secure your benefits faster and without all the hassle of regular applications.
This program is a considerable advantage for individuals with severe disabilities and health conditions who need immediate financial assistance.
Consult with the SSA or a disability attorney about the qualifying impairments and find out if you are eligible for this fast-track Social Security benefit.
