Why Trisomy 9 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.
Diagnosed with a terminal illness? If your condition is terminal and your prognosis is less than 6 months, also request TERI (Terminal Illness) designation — it expedites payment in addition to the medical approval. Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or flag this at your field office.