Further Extension of the Flexibility in Evaluating “Close Proximity of Time” To Evaluate Ongoing Changes in Healthcare
Published Date: 1/17/2025
Rule
Summary
The Social Security Administration is extending a special rule that gives more time to consider medical records close together when deciding disability claims. This helps people who faced healthcare delays during and after COVID-19 by allowing more flexibility until May 11, 2029. If you’re applying for disability benefits related to muscle or bone problems, this extension could affect how your medical evidence is reviewed.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Disability Evidence Timeframe Extended
If you apply for Social Security disability for muscle or bone (musculoskeletal) problems, the Social Security Administration is extending a special rule so required medical findings can appear within a consecutive 12-month period when deciding your claim (instead of the usual 4-month standard). This temporary final rule is effective February 18, 2025 and will remain in effect through May 11, 2029 unless changed earlier.
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