Cornelia de Lange Syndrome - Classic Form

Why Cornelia de Lange Syndrome - Classic Form qualifies for fast-track approval

SSA has determined that this diagnosis is so medically severe and debilitating that it clearly meets the legal definition of disability — you don't need to prove residual functional capacity or work limitations separately. Your medical records + diagnostic confirmation are typically enough.

What this means for your SSDI claim

• Timeline: Most CAL decisions issue in 30–90 days, compared to 3–8 months for a regular claim. Some arrive within weeks.
• Same application: Use the standard SSDI process (online, phone, or in-person). SSA's systems auto-flag CAL diagnoses.
• Same 5-month waiting period applies: Your benefit entitlement still starts 5 months after your Established Onset Date (waived only for ALS).
• Still need work credits: CAL covers the medical evaluation; you still must meet SSDI's non-medical requirements (enough work credits, not earning above SGA).
• SSI may also apply: If you haven't worked enough to qualify for SSDI, you can concurrently apply for SSI. Both programs recognize CAL conditions.

What SSA will want to see

• Diagnostic confirmation — pathology reports, genetic testing, imaging, or the specific diagnostic study that established your diagnosis.
• Treating specialist records — notes from the oncologist, neurologist, geneticist, or other specialist who diagnosed you. Primary care records alone may not suffice.
• Treatment history — any surgeries, chemo, radiation, or other therapy, with dates and responses.
• Staging or severity markers — where the CAL listing includes specific stage/severity criteria (e.g., "with distant metastases"), your records must confirm that qualifier.

How to file

Apply through one of the standard SSDI channels:

• Online at ssa.gov/benefits/disability/ — fastest.
• Phone at 1-800-772-1213.
• In person at your local SSA field office.

On form SSA-3368 (Adult Disability Report), list your diagnosis by the exact name — including the CAL-qualifying qualifier (e.g., "metastatic breast cancer," "glioblastoma multiforme"). Include the date of diagnosis, treating specialist, and the hospital/clinic. The more precise the diagnosis language, the more reliably SSA's systems flag it for the CAL queue.