Serious & Terminal Illness
Disability Claims in Massachusetts
Serving clients throughout Massachusetts, including Boston, Worcester, and surrounding communities
Serious and
Terminal Illness Claims
No Fee Unless We Win Your Case
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a serious or terminal illness, you may qualify for expedited Social Security Disability benefits. Certain conditions are recognized by the Social Security Administration under the Compassionate Allowances program, allowing claims to be processed more quickly.
At Sullivan & Hartley, P.C., we help clients across Massachusetts secure fast-tracked SSDI and SSI benefits by ensuring applications are complete, properly documented, and supported by medical evidence.
What Are Expedited
Social Security Disability Benefits?
Social Security Disability benefits (SSDI and SSI) provide financial support to individuals who are unable to work due to serious medical conditions. In certain cases involving severe or terminal illnesses, the Social Security Administration may fast-track claims through expedited review programs. These processes are designed to help qualified individuals receive benefits as quickly as possible, but approval still depends on strong medical evidence and proper documentation.
How Social Security Expedites
Severe Disability Claims
Compassionate
Allowances (CAL):
Fast-tracks claims for specific severe medical conditions that clearly meet disability standards
Quick Disability Determination (QDD):
Uses software to flag claims with a high likelihood of approval based on medical evidence
Terminal Illness (TERI):
Expedites claims involving conditions expected to result in death
The Social Security Administration uses several internal programs to identify claims that should be processed quickly. These programs are designed to reduce wait times, but approval still depends on complete and accurate medical documentation
Conditions That May Qualify for Expedited Disability
Serious and Life-Threatening Illnesses
Advanced-stage cancers
ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease)
Pancreatic and other aggressive cancers
Organ failure or end-stage disease
Severe neurological disorders
Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease
Rare genetic conditions
In many cases, the severity and progression of the condition determine eligibility, not just the diagnosis itself.
How Fast Can These Claims Be Approved?
Timelines for Expedited Cases
Standard SSDI and SSI claims can take several months or longer. However, claims flagged under CAL, QDD, or TERI may be approved much faster. Submitting a well-prepared application is critical to avoiding unnecessary delays.
In some cases:
Decisions may be made in a matter of weeks
Approval depends on how quickly medical records are obtained
Delays can still occur if documentation is incomplete
Why Legal
Representation Matters
Timelines for Expedited Cases
Even though these programs are designed to move quickly, errors or missing information can still delay or derail a claim. The goal is to secure benefits as efficiently as possible so you can focus on your health and your family.
Our attorneys help:
Ensure all medical evidence is complete and properly submitted
Coordinate directly with treating physicians and specialists
Identify eligibility for expedited programs
Prevent avoidable delays or denials
Guide families through the process during difficult circumstances
Temporary benefits may be available while a claim is pending for certain conditions
Additional Situations That May Qualify for Faster Processing
Other Expedited Disability Scenarios:
Some claims may also be accelerated under specific circumstances, including:
1
2
3
Military Service-Related Disabilities:
Dire Need Situations:
Temporary benefits may be available while a claim is pending for certain conditions
Presumptive Disability:
Priority processing for certain service members
Expedited review for individuals lacking food, shelter, or medical care
Temporary benefits may be available while a claim is pending for certain conditions
Each situation requires careful evaluation to determine eligibility.
Speak With a
Massachusetts Disability Attorney
If you or a loved one is facing a serious or terminal illness, applying for disability benefits can feel overwhelming. You do not have to navigate the process alone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Expedited Disability Claims
No. There is no separate application. Social Security identifies qualifying claims based on the medical information provided, which is why accurate documentation is critical.
Some terminal illness (TERI) claims may be approved in a matter of weeks, depending on how quickly medical evidence is reviewed.
Yes. Even expedited claims can be delayed or denied if medical records are incomplete or do not clearly support the disability.
Clear, consistent, and well-documented medical evidence is the most important factor in any Social Security Disability claim.
