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Social Security Expands Fast-Track Disability Processes

The Social Security Administration has announced this week that more than 100,000 disabled applicants are to get quick decisions in their claims. This is of course great news for those in the small percentage who have managed to get their claims on the fast-track. Unfortunately, for the vast majority of claimants, the wait between initial application and final disposition is grindingly slow. But this is a step in the right direction, and possibly a sign of things to come. Here is the official press release from the Social Security Administration:

Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security, announced today that improvements to the agency’s computer modeling system have increased the number of claimants receiving expedited approvals for disability benefits. Social Security’s two-track system — the Quick Disability Determination (QDD) process and Compassionate Allowances — is now fast-tracking about 4 percent of all disability cases, a sharp increase from the 2.7 percent of cases fast-tracked last year.

“In practical terms, this means that this year 100,000 to 125,000 disabled Americans — those with the most severe disabilities — will be approved for benefits in about 10 days instead of waiting the three to four months it typically takes for an initial decision,” Commissioner Astrue said. “These initiatives are truly a lifeline for those who need it most.”

Under QDD, a predictive computer model analyzes specific data within the electronic file to identify cases where there is a high potential that the claimant is disabled and where Social Security can quickly obtain evidence of the person’s allegations. Through Compassionate Allowances, Social Security expedites the processing of disability claims for applicants with medical conditions so severe that their conditions by definition meet Social Security’s standards. These fast-track systems increase the efficiency of the disability process and also help free up resources so the agency can better cope with an increase of about 250,000 cases resulting from the current economic downturn.

“During these tough economic times, getting Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability benefits quickly to Americans who are unable to work helps them and strengthens our economy. For SSI recipients, expedited approvals also ensure they immediately get the vital medical coverage they need,” Commissioner Astrue said. “It is critical that we continue to embrace innovative technologies in order to improve the services we provide to the public.”

Bob Kraft

I am a Dallas, Texas lawyer who has had the privilege of helping thousands of clients since 1971 in the areas of Personal Injury law and Social Security Disability.

About This Blog

The title of this blog reflects my attitude toward those government agencies and insurance companies that routinely mistreat injured or disabled people. As a Dallas, Texas lawyer, I've spent more than 45 years trying to help those poor folk, and I have been frustrated daily by the actions of the people on the other side of their claims. (Sorry if I offended you...)

If you find this type of information interesting or helpful, please visit my law firm's main website at KraftLaw.com. You will find many more articles and links. Thank you for your time.

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