On average, an initial application takes an average of two to three months for a decision. SSA has an obligation to provide benefits quickly to individuals whose medical conditions clearly meet our disability standards.

The Quick Disability Determinations (QDD) and Compassionate Allowances (CAL) initiatives utilize computer modelling technology in a strategic manner to identify these applicants. The QDD initiative uses predictive modelling to identify cases where there is high degree of likelihood the applicant is disabled and that medical evidence is readily available. The CAL initiative uses the predictive model to identify applicants who are clearly disabled by the very nature of their disease or condition. This two-track system is now identifying about four per cent of applications for fast-track processing, thus enhancing customer service to the disabled community.