Kidney disease and the Compassionate Allowance program

One out of three Americans has a significant risk of developing kidney disease, and there are 20 million Americans suffering from chronic kidney disease. Many individuals do not even know that they suffer from kidney disease. In the instance of one individual, he was not aware he suffered from kidney disease until he became ill while driving.Kidney disease is a part of Social Security’s Compassionate Allowance program. This program allows individuals undergoing dialysis, suffering some serious medical condition due to kidney disease (such as kidney cancer), or who are in need of a kidney transplant to file for Social Security disability.The intent of the Compassionate Allowance program was to allow individuals with severe medical conditions to receive prompt payment of their Social Security disability benefits. It allows an expedited handling process of disability applications related to certain medical conditions.We’ve stated many times about the number of requirements accompanying the filing for Social Security Disability Insurance. The process is complex and documentation is required for an application to be accepted. Also, overburdened workers at the Social Security Administration have little time to assist applicants through the process.There are experienced SSDI attorneys ready to assist, however. These professionals have been through the process many times and understand what will be required of all applicants. They can explain the process to you and help you understand your various options – such as qualifications for the Compassionate Allowance program. While many choose to represent themselves through the process, please remember that the denial rate of initial applications is around 60 to 70 percent. Legal representation increases the odds of success.For those suffering from kidney disease or other maladies, Social Security disability benefits allow for a better quality of life.Source: Wicked Local, “Everything Social Security: Helping people with kidney disease,” Kristen Alberino, March 27, 2015