Applying for Disability Benefits: Cancer Patients' Guide

Social Security disability benefits are available for cancer patients in form of Social Security disability benefits. 

The SSA offers two different programs that those with cancer can qualify for. Disability benefits for cancer patients can help cover daily living expenses, such as rent, utilities, food, medical bills, etc. Continue reading below to see how to qualify for disability benefits

Can You Get Disability with Cancer?

Yes, you are able to get disability with cancer if it prevents you from being able to work full time for at least a year. 

If your cancer has progressed enough and is considered metastatic, or stage IV, or if it’s considered terminal, you will automatically get disability benefits through the Compassionate Allowance program.  

Compassionate Allowances allows the Social Security Administration (SSA) to approve disability applications faster for more severe cases, such as stage IV cancer in order for disability benefits to be processed and collected faster for those who qualify.

How to Apply for Disability Benefits for Cancer

Step 1: Understand Your Options

The SSA has two different disability programs for which you may qualify 

with cancer. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is available for disabled workers, but Supplemental Security Income (SSI) may also be an option for you, if you have a low household income.

Whether you apply for just one program or for both, you will need to gather your documentation and be prepared to provide consistent and thorough details about your employment history, financial situation, medical records, and education and job training.

Step 2. Gather Documents & Medical Records

Start by collecting all your medical records and test results from doctors and specialists you've consulted. Your lawyer can assist you in this process to ensure you have comprehensive documentation.

  • Supporting Documents and Treatment Proof: Include any supporting documents that illustrate the ineffectiveness of treatments you've undergone. This evidence is crucial for strengthening your application.
  • Importance of Medical Evidence: Providing sufficient and high-quality medical evidence significantly increases your chances of approval. Learn more about what constitutes strong medical evidence here.

For more information on the types of documents and proofs accepted by the SSA, visit our glossary. Additionally, understand the signs that indicate your claim is likely to be approved by visiting this page.

Step 3. Understand Criteria for Receiving Cancer benefits

Certain aggressive or late-stage cancers may qualify under the SSA’s Compassionate Allowance (CAL) program. Qualification may occur if:

  • Cancer has spread beyond its origin
  • Cancer is inoperable
  • Cancer recurs despite treatment

Automatic qualification under CAL includes cancers like breast cancer with distant metastases, esophageal cancer, and pancreatic cancer. For cancers not listed, eligibility may be determined under Blue Book Section 13.00.

Work closely with your doctor and lawyer to understand requirements and ensure your application meets necessary standards. The SSA may request a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) analysis if your condition doesn’t match a listing, assessing your ability to work despite cancer’s limitations.

Step 4. Complete & Submit Application

After gathering documents and understanding criteria, obtain disability application forms from the SSA. Fill out the application thoroughly and accurately with guidance from your lawyer.

Once completed, submit your application and retain copies of all submitted documents for reference. For assistance with paperwork, consult here.

Step 5. Application Follow-Up

Maintain contact with your lawyer and the SSA to monitor your application status. Be ready to provide additional information or attend evaluations if requested.

Track your application status here.

Step 6. Appeal Upon Denial

Two out of every three disability applications are denied initially. Don’t worry because you have the option of appealing the SSA’s denials.

It is very important not to panic if you are denied disability at first. You have 60 days to file an appeal by submitting a request for reconsideration to the SSA. Use this opportunity to correct any errors or provide additional information, including updates on your medical condition and treatment.

For more guidance on the appeal process, visit our FAQ.

 

Get Connected With a Disability Lawyer

Connecting with a disability lawyer can significantly improve your chances of approval for benefits. Here’s how they can help:

  • Expert Guidance: A lawyer provides expert guidance through the complex disability benefits process.
  • Collecting Medical Records: They assist in gathering all necessary medical records and documents to strengthen your case.
  • Appeal Assistance: If your benefits are denied, a lawyer can help you navigate the appeals process effectively.
  • Payment Contingency: Importantly, disability lawyers are typically paid only if your case is won, ensuring they are motivated to help you succeed.

For expert assistance, get connected with a disability lawyer today.

For more information on how a lawyer can help with paperwork, click here.

Curious about the cost of hiring an attorney? Learn more here.

Discover how a disability attorney can improve your chances of winning your case by visiting our FAQ section.

FAQ: Disability Benefits and Support for Cancer Patients

How Much Disability Can You Receive With Cancer? 

The maximum amount you can get in disability with cancer is $3,882 per month. The maximum amount you can get in SSI with cancer is $943 a month. 

The average disability check though is a little under $1,500 per month. How much your disability check is with cancer depends on your work history and the severity of your cancer. 

Use our benefits calculator to see how much in disability you could get in 2024.

Are There State Benefits For Cancer Patients?

Depending on your state of residence, additional benefits may be available alongside Social Security disability benefits. Some states offer programs that cover treatment and prescription costs for cancer patients. Medicaid is another benefit available to eligible individuals with cancer who are on SSI benefits. Contact your disability lawyer for more information on state benefits.

Can Cancer Patients Get Help With Food Costs?

There are some state programs that may be able to help with food costs for low-income people who are unable to work due to a cancer diagnosis. 

This includes The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP is the best known one. It allows people to shop for food in grocery stores using a special Electronic Benefits Transfer card, much like a bank card.

Meals on Wheels is a program designed for people who are disabled, homebound, or elderly. Volunteers deliver cooked meals to your home. Costs or fees vary depending on your age and where you live.

What Other Benefits Are Cancer Patients Entitled To?

As long as you have evidence to prove your cancer diagnosis you may qualify for disability benefits as long as you are unable to work for at least 12 months.

This helps to cover your expenses while receiving cancer treatment. There are other organizations who are available to offer assistance if you have been diagnosed with cancer. Some of these are listed below:

 Additional Resources