Few medical conditions frighten people more than cancer. There are many different types of cancer, and most of them require invasive, possibly downright painful treatment.
Most people cannot continue working while undergoing cancer treatment. They might hope to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits after their diagnosis. However, not everyone with cancer is actually eligible for SSDI benefits based on the strict standards maintained by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
When are cancer patients potentially able to request SSDI benefits after their diagnosis?
When the cancer is terminal
When a medical condition is likely to result in an individual dying, that person could potentially qualify for SSDI benefits. They may even be eligible for expedited claims processing in some cases. People diagnosed with terminal cancer may require support as they manage paperwork and gather documentation to apply for SSDI benefits.
When treatment may last more than a year
In some cases, people catch their cancer early. They may need to go through a three-month regimen of chemotherapy and surgery. However, doctors may expect them to achieve remission in less than a year.
The medical condition needs to be both completely debilitating and long-term for a person to qualify for SSDI benefits. Cancer symptoms and the side effects of treatment can leave someone unable to work. However, if they are likely to return to work in less than a year, they may not be eligible for SSDI benefits.
Reviewing a recent diagnosis, as well as the prognosis and proposed treatment plan, can help a cancer patient evaluate their chances of securing SSDI benefits. Cancer is one of the more common qualifying conditions that may make people eligible for SSDI benefits.