Esthesioneuroblastoma is a rare form of cancer and one that can qualify you for not only disability benefits but also expedited review and approval of your disability claim through the Social Security Administration’s (SSA’s) Compassionate Allowances (CAL) program.
Compassionate Allowances
When your application is submitted, it will be flagged for quick review under the CAL program. This means you wait only a matter of weeks for a decision on your claim rather than several months, which is the average for all non-CAL applications.
What CAL designation does not do is eliminate the need for thoroughly filling out the application for benefits or for providing the SSA the essential medical documentation for proving your claim. You must still submit copies of as many of your medical records as possible at the time that you apply or shortly after you submit an application.
Respond quickly to any additional requests for information that you receive from the SSA so that your claim is not delayed.
Required Medical Evidence for Esthesioneuroblastoma
CAL designation also minimizes the medical evidence the SSA requires for approving a disability application. The essential information necessary for approving your claim includes:
- A thorough clinical describing the illness, its onset, your prognosis, and the extent of the disease, including any treatments undertaken and their effects.
- Endoscopy and biopsy reports.
- CT/MRI and PET scan reports.
The SSA may also consult the Blue Book, which is their manual of disabling impairments and the necessary evidence for supporting a claim based on each condition. The specific listing that they will review appears in Section 13.13 of the Blue Book.
Submitting an Application
Though it is unusual for a claim based on Esthesioneuroblastoma to be denied, having the help of a Social Security advocate or disability attorney when filling out your application and collecting the required medical evidence is never a bad idea. A second set of eyes can catch error and missing details.
- SSI applications must be made in person at your local SSA office and you must have an appointment, which can be arranged by calling 1-800-772-1213.
- SSDI applications can be completed online, via the SSA’s website, or in person at your local office. Online application is often the fastest method, as there is no need to wait for an appointment.
Though it will take time to fill out these applications and to collect the required documents, SSD benefits can give you the financial support you need to pay for everyday expenses and ongoing needs. Qualifying for benefits also makes you eligible for Medicaid and/or Medicare coverage, providing the insurance coverage you need to receive long-term treatment without concern for financial constraints.
