Noteboom The Law Firm

Schizophrenia Still Not Qualified for Compassionate Allowances

Many people who suffer from schizophrenia may not know that they are often eligible for Social Security disability benefits. In fact, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has held hearings addressing schizophrenia and how individuals affected by this illness may qualify for benefits.

Commissioner of Social Security, Michael J. Astrue, hosted the SSA's 5th hearing regarding Compassionate Allowances and schizophrenia in fall 2009. He noted that this condition affects more than 2 million people in this nation, many of whom are 30 years or younger. Astrue said that many with schizophrenia may suffer experience unemployment and/or homelessness at some point in their lives.

Compassionate Allowances is a program that attempts to distribute disability benefits more quickly than usual to those who meet the SSA's standards for a disability. The list of conditions that qualify for this program was compiled through several public outreach hearings, as well as using input from both experts and the public. Currently, about 50 conditions meet the qualifications for Compassionate Allowances. 

Schizophrenia has not yet been added to the list for Compassionate Allowances, but hearings like the fall 2009 may change that. More than 150,000 disability cases were put on the fast track to benefits in 2009. If you think that your case deserves to be processed more quickly, or that your condition should be added to the list, contact a disability attorney for more information about your rights to disability benefits.

If you or your loved one are suffering from a severe physical or mental disability, you should contact a Social Security Disability lawyer immediately to learn about your rights and determine eligibility. The process of securing Social Security Disability Insurance benefits and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be difficult and overwhelming. Don't go it alone! The disability lawyers at LaVan & Neidenberg, located in Ft. Lauderdale, FL understand the inner workings of the Social Security Administration and will help you navigate the system. Call us today for a FREE legal consultation - 1-888-234-5758.