I have previously discussed expediting Social Security disability cases for Dire Need. I recently came across the worksheet that Social Security uses when evaluating these cases:

This includes consideration of the following issues:

Terminal illness.
Wounded warrior.
Compassionate allowance.
Dire need.
Suicidal/homicidal ideation cases.

Here is a link to the HALLEX for the form. Note: this a form Social Security uses internally. You do not need to use this to request consideration as a critical case. All you need to do is write a letter to the SSA office working on your case and state why the case should be expedited. Of course, the reason(s) should fall into one areas discussed above.

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Wounded veterans can get faster expedited processing of their Social Security disability benefit cases (Disability Insurance – DIB, and supplemental security income – SSI) under the Wounded Warrior program.

Note: Social Security disability benefits may be in addition to any benefits paid by the VA.

To have the case flagged under this program (and receive critical case / dire need

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Gordon Gates wrote a great article outlining when “critical cases” get moved to the front of the line at Social Security.
Critical cases get priority because they are the most serious claims. There are three situations that constitute critical cases: 1) the claimant’s illness is terminal, 2) there is an indication that the claimant is suicidal or homicidal, and 3) dire need.
What is “dire need?”  HALLEX I-2-1-40 sets out the requirements:

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