For many people in Connecticut applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), the process feels frustratingly slow. It can take several months, and in some cases more than a year, before benefits are approved. However, in certain circumstances, the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers expedited processing that can move your claim forward more quickly.

If you’re applying in Connecticut and wondering if your SSDI claim qualifies for expedited review, here’s what you need to know.
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1. Compassionate Allowances (CAL) Program
- The Compassionate Allowances Program is designed to fast-track applications for people with very serious medical conditions.
- Over 200 qualifying illnesses—including certain cancers, ALS, and rare genetic disorders—are on the list.
- Claims under CAL are usually decided in weeks instead of months, since the SSA recognizes the severity of the conditions and requires less additional review.
2. Quick Disability Determinations (QDD)
- QDD uses a computerized screening system to identify cases that are highly likely to be approved.
- If your application includes strong medical evidence and clearly shows disability, it may be flagged for faster processing.
- Decisions can sometimes be made within a few weeks if the system determines your case is straightforward.
3. Terminal Illness (TERI) Cases
- If your medical condition is considered terminal, your application may be marked as a TERI case.
- These cases are prioritized, with SSA employees instructed to handle them immediately.
- Examples include late-stage cancers or illnesses with a poor prognosis.
4. Dire Need Situations
- Expedited review may also apply if you are in a “dire need” situation.
- Dire need is defined as not being able to afford food, shelter, or necessary medical treatment.
- You will need to provide documentation to support your financial hardship.
5. Veterans and Military Applicants
- The SSA also offers expedited processing for Wounded Warriors and certain veterans whose disabilities are connected to their military service.
- These claims are given special priority due to the applicant’s service background.
6. Important Limits to Expedited Processing
While expedited review can shorten the wait time, it’s important to understand:

- Not all cases qualify.
- Even expedited claims require sufficient medical evidence.
- Missing records or incomplete applications can still cause delays.
- Most applicants in Connecticut will still go through the
standard process unless they meet one of the special criteria above.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we know how critical SSDI benefits are for those who can’t work due to a disability. If you think your case may qualify for expedited processing, we can:
- Evaluate your eligibility under CAL, QDD, TERI, or dire need criteria.
- Work with your doctors to quickly collect detailed medical evidence that strengthens your claim.
- Ensure your application is complete, accurate, and flagged correctly for fast review.
- Handle communications with the SSA to push your claim forward without unnecessary delays.
- Represent you in appeals if your expedited request is denied.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you’re asking, “Can SSDI be expedited in Connecticut?”, the answer is yes—but only under specific conditions. Don’t navigate this complex system alone. Contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. We’ll review your situation, determine if you qualify for expedited benefits, and fight to get your claim processed as quickly as possible so you can focus on your health and recovery.
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