Speeding Up A Disability Claim: Dire Need

Social Security disability provides financial relief, however it can take a while to apply and ultimately reach approval. During these months, or even years, many claimants face valid fears of experiencing serious financial hardship.

If someone in this situation is struggling to afford basic necessities, they can request the review process to be sped up due to dire need. This includes the inability to afford food, medication or medical treatment, or being at risk of losing housing or utilities.

Is Your Situation a Dire Need Case?

To recognize a dire need case, Social Security needs to see that there’s an urgent need for financial assistance. Specific examples inlcude:

• Receiving an eviction notice
• Experiencing homelessness
• Negative or overdrawn bank account
• Unable to pay for life-saving medical treatment or medication

To support this request, you should keep records or take pictures of anything that demonstrates these conditions.

Many people rely on other methods of support, if available to them. You can learn more about these options by reading How to Survive Financially While Waiting for Disability.

If these options are not possible and you have completely run out of resources, you could be eligible for an expedited review process.

Requesting Dire Need

Requests for dire need can be made by a variety of avenues including phone, fax, or electronic means. However, many experts may recommend submitting the request via letter for stronger evidence and paper-trail reasons. If Social Security finds a case does not meet the definition of dire need, they may declassify the case as dire need. Having a strong letter can lower the risks of this happening.

Our experienced team of advocates can help you construct a strong dire need letter. They can ensure that the letter clearly explains how the situation is urgent and include the proper supporting evidence.

The best way to get in touch with our team is by a free evaluation or calling +1 (949) 409-6023.

Once the Request is Made

When Social Security received the request, they can flag the case electronically. Once flagged, the Disability Determination Services (DDS), who conducts the medical review of disability claims, is required to assign your case to a reviewer no later than the next business day.

Keep in mind, a dire need case does not mean immediate approval. The case will may still take time and dire need only speeds up the review process—it does not guarantee approval.

You will want to make sure that all your medical evidence is consistent and organized for a smoother review process. Our advocates at AppAid can help identity gaps in your claim and if you get denied, will guide you through the appeals process.

If you are unsure where your claim stands, are considering requesting dire need, or facing a denial, our advocates are here to help.

Take a free evaluation today to get in touch with our Social Security disability experts.