Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in Minnesota often takes months—or even years—before you receive a decision. However, not every case has to go through the standard waiting process. In some circumstances, the Social Security Administration (SSA) allows claims to be expedited, giving people in urgent situations a faster path to benefits.

If you live in Minnesota and are wondering whether your SSDI case can be fast-tracked, here’s what you need to know.
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When Can SSDI Be Expedited in Minnesota?
The SSA has several programs that allow for expedited processing of disability claims:
- Compassionate Allowances (CAL): Covers over 200 severe conditions such as advanced cancers, ALS, and certain rare disorders. Claims under CAL may be approved within weeks.
- Terminal Illness (TERI) Cases: Applicants with terminal illnesses may have their cases prioritized.
- Quick Disability Determination (QDD): If the SSA’s system identifies strong medical evidence that clearly supports disability, the case may be fast-tracked.
- Dire Need Cases: If you’re at risk of homelessness, unable to afford food, or in another emergency financial situation, your case may be flagged for expedited handling.
Average Processing Time vs. Expedited Cases in Minnesota
- Standard Initial Application: Typically takes 3–6 months.
- Reconsideration Appeals: Usually 2–4 months more.
- Hearing Stage: In Minnesota, wait times for hearings can be 12–18 months due to heavy backlogs.
By contrast, expedited cases may be decided in a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the program you qualify for.
How to Request Expedited SSDI in Minnesota
If you believe your situation qualifies for fast-tracking:
- Submit complete medical documentation with your application.
- Clearly indicate special conditions (such as terminal illness, CAL, or severe financial hardship).
- Ask your doctor to provide specific medical evidence that supports urgency.
- If facing eviction, foreclosure, or homelessness, provide proof of financial crisis.
Tips for Increasing Your Chances of Expedited Processing
- File your application online for faster submission.
- Double-check that all required forms and medical records are included.
- Respond quickly to SSA requests for additional information.
- Consider working with an SSDI attorney who understands how to flag cases for expedited review.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we know how important it is to get benefits quickly when you’re unable to work. Our team helps Minnesota clients by:
- Reviewing your case to determine if you qualify for expedited processing.
- Gathering critical medical evidence to strengthen your claim.
- Submitting dire need requests with the necessary documentation.
- Following up with the SSA to ensure your case is handled promptly.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you’re applying for SSDI in Minnesota and need your case expedited, contact Hogan Smith today for a free consultation. We’ll guide you through the process and work to get your claim decided as quickly as possible.
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