THE CAL IN 2026: NEW COMPASSIONATE ALLOWANCES

2026 ADDITIONS TO THE CAL

In 2026, the Social Security Administration (SSA) added fourteen new medical conditions to their Compassionate Allowances (CAL) list. The CAL initiative accelerates the SSD application process for those with serious diseases and medical conditions that meet the statutory standard for SSD benefits.

The 14 new conditions became effective August 10, 2026. The additions include rare genetic disorders, serious childhood seizure disorders, and several aggressive forms of cancer.

The new conditions are:

1. Adenylosuccinate Lyase Deficiency – Neonatal Form and Type 1
2. Aicardi Syndrome
3. Baraitser-Winter Syndrome
4. Beare-Stevenson Cutis Gyrata Syndrome
5. Bohring-Opitz Syndrome
6. CASK-Related Gene Disorders
7. Hepatosplenic T-Cell Lymphoma
8. Lafora Disease
9. Malignant Migrating Partial Seizures of Infancy (MMPSI)
10. OPHN1 Syndrome
11. Primary Cardiac Sarcoma
12. Primary Intracranial Malignant Melanoma
13. Uveal Melanoma – with Metastases
14. Warburg Micro Syndrom

TO RECEIVE SSD BENEFITS YOU MUST FIRST FILE AN APPLICATION

There are two types of benefits for which you can file an application: Social Security Disability Insurance benefits and Supplemental Security Income benefits. You can file an application on Social Security’s website. Even if you have a CAL medical condition, you cannot receive benefits unless you apply. Below is an explanation as to each type of benefit you can receive:

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI):  

SSDI benefits are for those who can no longer work at any job due to a severe medical condition. The amount of money you receive in SSDI benefits is based on the taxes you paid while you were working. To qualify for SSDI, you must have enough work credits. A work credit is an amount of taxable income. You can earn up to 4 work credits per year.

SSDI benefits can be paid one year prior to the date of your application, as long as you were not working and can prove your medical condition to the SSA. If you wait to apply, then you lose past due benefits.

The amount of work credits you need to qualify for SSDI benefits depends on how old you are at the time you file your application. If you don’t have enough quarters of coverage for your age at the time you apply, then you can only file for Supplemental Security Income benefits.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI):  

SSI is a needs based benefit. That means it is for people with little to no income, such as children and the elderly. Anyone with family income of, for example, $5000 a month cannot receive SSI benefits. The SSA counts the income of those in your household, not just your income and assets. Additionally, the SSA will count your assets. If you have a boat or ATV or anything you can sell that is beyond a car and a home, then that may make it so you don’t qualify for SSI. You cannot win SSI benefits, even with a CAL medical condition, if you do not meet the income and asset rules for SSI.

2. AICARDI SYNDROME

Aicardi syndrome is an extremely rare genetic disorder characterized by the absence or incomplete development of the corpus callosum, the structure that connects the left and right sides of the brain. This CAL condition is associated with seizures, abnormalities of the retina, and other brain and eye abnormalities. Aicardi syndrome is present at birth and occurs almost exclusively in females. Its exact cause is not known, although it has been associated with mutations involving a gene on the X chromosome.

3. BARAITSER-WINTER SYNDROME

Baraitser-Winter syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects the development of the brain and other parts of the body. Structural abnormalities of the brain are common, including pachygyria, in which the brain has fewer folds and grooves than normal.

These abnormalities can cause developmental delays, intellectual disability, and seizures. Other possible features include distinctive facial characteristics, drooping eyelids, eye abnormalities, hearing loss, short stature, kidney abnormalities, and muscle weakness or wasting.

4. BEARE-STEVENSON CUTIS GYRATA SYNDROME

Baraitser-Winter syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects the development of the brain and other parts of the body. The condition occurs from the premature fusion of certain bones of the skull, along with distinctive skin abnormalities called cutis gyrata.

Because the skull bones fuse too early, it creates abnormal development of the skull and face. Individuals with Beare-Stevenson cutis gyrata syndrome may also have abnormalities involving the eyes, ears, and genitalia. Significant airway problems can occur and may require medical intervention. The condition can cause serious developmental and physical problems and, in severe cases, may be life threatening.

5. BOHRING-OPITZ SYNDROME

Bohring-Opitz syndrome is an extremely rare genetic disorder that is usually apparent at birth. It is most often caused by a new mutation in the ASXL1 gene and generally affects development throughout the body.

Children with Bohring-Opitz syndrome may have severe developmental delay, intellectual disability, poor growth, feeding difficulties, seizures, distinctive facial features, and abnormalities involving the heart, kidneys, or vision.

Many children with this condition have difficulty developing normal motor skills. Some are unable to walk and may never develop typical speech. Bohring-Opitz syndrome can also be associated with serious medical complications and a high mortality rate during early childhood.

6. CASK-RELATED GENE DISORDERS

CASK-related gene disorders are rare genetic conditions caused by mutations in the CASK gene. These disorders include microcephaly with pontine and cerebellar hypoplasia, commonly called MICPCH, as well as certain forms of X linked intellectual disability.

The condition can cause microcephaly, developmental delay, intellectual disability, seizures, abnormal muscle tone, problems with coordination, and abnormalities involving the brain and cerebellum. Some individuals may also experience vision or hearing problems and short stature. The severity of CASK-related disorders varies. Some people with the disease have profound developmental and intellectual impairments, while others have less severe symptoms. Neurological problems and epilepsy can also occur.

7. HEPATOSPLENIC T-CELL LYMPHOMA

Hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma is an extremely rare and aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The cancer generally affects the liver, spleen, and bone marrow and typically does not cause enlargement of the lymph nodes. Symptoms may include an enlarged liver or spleen, fever, night sweats, weight loss, severe fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, anemia, and abnormally low numbers of blood cells.

Hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma can progress rapidly and may be difficult to treat. It most often affects adolescents and young adults. The prognosis is generally poor, even with intensive treatment.

8. LAFORA DISEASE

Lafora disease is a rare neurological disorder that usually begins during late childhood. It is commonly caused by mutations in the EPM2A or NHLRC1 genes.The condition causes progressive epilepsy and neurological deterioration. Symptoms may include seizures, myoclonus, problems with coordination, difficulty speaking, memory problems, cognitive decline, and dementia.

Lafora disease is progressive and can result in severe disability. As the disease advances, individuals may lose physical and cognitive abilities they previously had. There is currently no cure. Treatment focuses on controlling seizures and managing symptoms.

9. MALIGNANT MIGRATING PARTIAL SEIZURES OF INFANCY (MMPSI)

Malignant Migrating Partial Seizures of Infancy, also known as epilepsy of infancy with migrating focal seizures. It is on the CAL, because it is a rare and severe form of epilepsy that begins during infancy. Children with MMPSI experience frequent focal seizures that can move from one area of the brain to another. The seizures usually don’t respond to medication and can occur many times throughout the day.

The disorder can cause severe developmental impairment. Additional symptoms may include microcephaly, abnormal muscle tone, involuntary movements, and problems with eye movement. MMPSI is a serious CAL condition with a poor prognosis.

10. OPHN1 SYNDROME

OPHN1 syndrome is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the OPHN1 gene. It primarily affects males and can cause moderate to severe intellectual disability and developmental delays.

If you have OPHN1 syndrome, then you may experience low muscle tone, seizures, problems with coordination, abnormal eye movements, and crossed eyes. Some individuals also have distinctive facial features or genital abnormalities. The severity of the condition can vary. Some individuals have significant neurological impairment and seizures that are difficult to control. Developmental and intellectual limitations can substantially interfere with daily activities and the ability to work.

11. PRIMARY CARDIAC SARCOMA

Primary cardiac sarcoma is an extremely rare malignant tumor that begins in the heart. Unlike cancer that spreads to the heart from another part of the body, a primary cardiac sarcoma originates in the heart itself.

There are several types of primary cardiac sarcoma. Angiosarcoma is the common type, although other forms include leiomyosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, and synovial sarcoma. Because these tumors can grow rapidly, they may not be found until the disease is advanced. Symptoms can include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, abnormal heart rhythms, swelling of the legs or abdomen, fever, and weight loss. Treatment can involve surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation. It can also involve other treatments depending on the type and location of the tumor and whether the cancer has spread.

12. PRIMARY INTRACRANIAL MALIGNANT MELANOMA

Primary intracranial malignant melanoma is an extremely rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the brain or the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms depend on the location and size of the tumor and may include headaches, seizures, neurological problems, muscle weakness, numbness, paralysis, and other problems that involve movement or sensation.

Because primary intracranial malignant melanoma can resemble other types of brain tumors, diagnosis generally requires medical testing and examination of tumor tissue. Treatment may include surgery to remove the tumor, radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy. The condition can be aggressive. It also has a significant risk of recurrence.

13. UVEAL MELANOMA – WITH METASTASES

Uveal melanoma is a rare form of cancer that develops in melanocytes, the pigment producing cells of the eye’s uveal tract. The uvea includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid.

The CAL condition specifically applies to uveal melanoma with metastases, meaning that the cancer has spread from the eye to another part of the body. Uveal melanoma commonly spreads to the liver, although it can also spread to the lungs, bones, lymph nodes, and other organs. Symptoms of metastatic disease depend on where the cancer has spread. They may include fatigue, weight loss, abdominal pain, jaundice, an enlarged liver, coughing, shortness of breath, or bone pain.

Metastatic uveal melanoma is an aggressive disease that can be difficult to treat. The prognosis is poor once the cancer has spread beyond the eye.

14. WARBURG MICRO SYNDROME

Warburg Micro syndrome is an extremely rare genetic disorder that primarily affects the development of the eyes, brain, and endocrine system. The condition generally begins during infancy and can cause severe intellectual disability, developmental delay, microcephaly, seizures, and progressive neurological deterioration.

Children with Warburg Micro syndrome may also have congenital cataracts, unusually small eyes, optic atrophy, and other issues involving the eyes and brain. As the condition progresses, individuals may develop severe muscle stiffness, paralysis, and significant limitations in movement. Some individuals may eventually develop serious problems with breathing.

THE CAL LIST ALLOWS FOR FASTER DECISIONS

With the addition of these 14 conditions, the CAL list now includes 314 conditions in total. Since the CAL initiative began, over 1.2 million people have received benefits through this process. The SSA CAL program allows the agency to make faster decisions.

When a person applies for SSD benefits, the SSA must obtain medical records to make an accurate determination. The SSA uses technology to identify potential CAL conditions. If they determine you have a CAL condition, then they expedite your case. Additionally, if you know you have a medical condition on the CAL list, then you can identify your claim for faster processing by the SSA. All you have to do is state that you have a CAL condition on your application.

However, even if you have a CAL condition does not mean that you automatically win benefits. The SSA must still determine whether you meet the requirements for SSDI or SSI benefits. They also have to decide whether the medical evidence establishes the severity and duration of your CAL condition.

If you or a family member has one of these newly added conditions and the condition prevents you from working, then hire us to fight for you. Our SSD attorneys can help you understand your rights and determine how to present the medical evidence to win your case.

YOU CAN SUGGEST NEW COMPASSIONATE ALLOWANCES TO THE CAL 

The SSA adds to the CAL list throughout the year. It is important, if you have a rare disease, to add it to the list. If you are a doctor who knows of rare diseases, then you can also request to add new conditions to the CAL.

You can see from the above list that the conditions on SSA’s list are rare. They are also severe and can result in an early death. The SSA’s website contains a page that allows you to submit potential new CAL conditions. Furthermore, the SSA relies on lawyers and doctors to bring attention to conditions that may qualify for the CAL.

While conditions on the CAL are severe, that does not mean that all of the conditions result in death. If you have a medical condition that is terminal, then that is a TERI case. Tell your SSD attorney if you have a terminal illness. Then, your lawyer can then flag the case with the SSA as a TERI case.

HIRE THE TOP LEGAL TEAM TO PREPARE YOUR CAL CASE

An SSD attorney can help you learn about filing for SSDI and SSI benefits. Working with an attorney will help you prepare a strong case. If you hire our SSD law firm, then we will make sure your application for benefits is complete. Likewise, we will appeal any SSA denial. We will also help you collect your medical records. Also, we will prepare you to be a better witness at your hearing.

At your hearing, we also question the experts. The judge may hire a medical expert and VE to testify at the hearing. Normally, the medical expert comes to the hearing to testify about your medical conditions. You will need an attorney to question the medical expert or object to testimony from the expert. The judge can also call a VE, which is a job expert. The VE’s testimony will be about the kind of jobs you might be able to do with your physical and mental conditions. Understand why a VE attends your hearing.

Filing an application for SSDI benefits can be a difficult process. Hiring a legal team with experience to help you through the process is a great choice. This will make the application process easier for you. It will also help you win at the hearing. If you think you need the assistance of a law firm, then let us help you. Additionally, we offer a free review of your case. It costs nothing to call and ask your questions.

THE TOP SSD ATTORNEYS CAN HELP YOU FILE FOR CAL BENEFITS

We will use our legal skills to help you through the Social Security benefits process. It is our goal to win your case using the CAL and to make it easier for you. We offer a free review of your case. And, there is no pressure to become a client. You can simply ask questions. We will try to help you, even if you don’t become our client.

It also doesn’t cost you money upfront to hire us. Why? Because we are only paid if we win your benefits. If we do not win, then you do not pay an attorney fee. But, how much is the fee? The fee is 25% of your back benefit. However, the SSA caps the attorney fee. You pay whatever amount is less.  Twenty-five percent of your back benefit is usually less than the cap on fees.

If there are costs in your case, then you pay for those costs. Costs are minimal. They are usually less than $100. Typically, the only cost you will pay for is a copy of your medical records. And, we only charge you what the doctor charges us. You will owe costs whether we win or lose your case. In order to hire most lawyers, you have to pay an upfront fee. We don’t work like that. You don’t have a job. So how can we expect you to pay upfront? We can’t. That is why you only pay if you win benefits. Contact us today if you need help with your benefits.

OUR SSD LAW FIRM CAN HELP YOU WIN WITH THE CAL

The SSD review process can feel overwhelming when you are dealing with a CAL medical condition. At the same time, missing information or weak evidence can hurt your case. An SSD lawyer can help gather medical records and communicate with the SSA on your behalf. Your attorney can help you build a stronger case. They can help you seek mental health counseling or refer you to a medical expert.

An attorney can also identify problems before they become serious issues. This can help prevent delays and improve your chances of winning SSDI benefits. Most importantly, legal guidance can give you peace of mind while you focus on your health.

Because of these risks, do not wait to hire an attorney if you have a CAL condition. File an application as soon as you become unable to work. If your CAL condition keeps you from earning a living, now is the time to learn about your options. The SSDI process takes time, so every month matters. Our SSD law firm can help you win the SSDI benefits that you deserve. If you have questions about whether your condition is on the CAL list or you need help with your SSDI application, then contact us today.