Cancer, in recent years, has become one of the most common ailments. According to medical records, the American Cancer Society has identified over two hundred categories of this disease. Apart from health-based problems, a cancer patient can experience several other issues, and one of them is financial instability.
This is where social security benefits come into action. Here is some of the crucial information that will help you know about the SSI process, formalities, norms, and qualification criteria regarding cancer patients.
Social Security Disability is a program that comes with several rules and regulations, and an applicant needs to meet all the requirements to qualify. If you or a loved one is unable to work due to cancer, you may be eligible for disability benefits to help cover medical expenses and lost income. Navigating the application process can be complex, but a skilled San Diego disability lawyer can guide you through the process and improve your chances of securing the benefits you deserve.
Is cancer a disability?
In 2019, doctors diagnosed about 1.7 million new cancer cases in patients and 606,880 cancer deaths in the United States. Some of these are easily treatable and non-invasive, with fewer risks, whereas others are much more risky. So, the patient's condition will determine whether the authority considers it a disability or not. Cancer-related illnesses often pose high financial risks.
Patients with aggressive cancer often struggle to manage their daily or work lives. High-cost treatments also cause financial toxicity, which can lead to bankruptcy and debt. SSI approval for cancer patients requires a long-term disability.
Supplemental Security Income for People with Cancer
Under certain circumstances, individuals over 50 years of age may be eligible to receive Social Security Disability benefits. However, the SSI, which is the Supplemental Security Income program, is known for paying a monthly benefit to individuals who are over the age of 65 or even older, blind or disabled children, or adults who have partial income sources.
This facility provides financial assistance for basic food needs, shelter, and clothing. If a patient has a relatively aggressive form or stage of cancer, we will process their applications more quickly.
When does the SSI process start?
The approval procedure for SSI can turn out quite short; however, it often takes several months. It may even require a year to process, appeal, and finalize all the information. We will continue this process until we make a decision. If you have specific illnesses, such as certain types of cancer, it may take less time to get approval. Typically, the process can go much faster for applicants who have a diagnosis on their compassionate allowance list.
If you are suffering from cancer, the SSA will require you to qualify for two different disability programs. The SSDI is accessible to disabled workers. However, the SSI, which is supplemental security income, might as well be a choice for you in case you have low household earnings. You can submit your application online at the local office through the official SSA website.
Need legal help? Contact a disability lawyer to make a claim
Many times, applicants lack medical records and evidence to prove their disability. You’d need to have a written statement from your doctor regarding your medical condition. You may be ill.
However, this does not guarantee approval for disability benefits. You should receive a written statement from your doctor or medical care provider stating that you cannot or should not work.
Your Social Security Disability Attorney will review your application before the SSA department. They will check whether you fulfill all the criteria or not. Your attorney will tell you if you qualify and how to strengthen your case.
