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Sadly, cancer remains one of the most common serious medical conditions in the United States and around the globe. According to data provided by the National Cancer Institute, nearly 2 million new cancer cases are diagnosed nationwide each year. The ultimate prognosis for each patient depends on many different factors, including the timelines of diagnosis and the specific form of cancer.
Cancer treatment can be intense. While dealing with cancer, a person may not reasonably be able to work on a full-time basis. Several different types of cancers qualify for Social Security disability benefits. Here, our Arizona Social Security disability lawyers discuss the different types of cancers that can qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits.
Social Security Disability Medical Evaluation: Cancer
Cancer is a listed impairment. All forms of cancer (malignant neoplastic diseases) fall under Disability Evaluation Under Social Security: Listing 13.00 (Cancer). Notably, every type of cancer can qualify for Social Security disability benefits under this listing. That being said, you will not automatically get disability benefits if you are diagnosed with cancer. The general rule to keep in mind with cancer and Social Security disability is as follows:
- Severity/Duration: A cancer diagnosis will typically qualify a patient for Social Security disability benefits if treatment is expected to last for more than one year or the disease is expected to result in death.
As noted previously, any form of cancer could qualify for Social Security disability benefits. However, the SSA’s evaluation policies generally presume that a person can keep working during their cancer treatment if that treatment is expected to be completed within 12 months. Of course, the specific facts of the case always matter. Cancer that is recurring, spreading, or that has been deemed inoperable may qualify an applicant for benefits.
A Note on Technical Eligibility: You must also satisfy financial and legal eligibility requirements to qualify for SSDI/SSI benefits for cancer. If you have too much income, you will be denied Social Security disability benefits, regardless of the severity of your cancer.
Medical Evidence is Key to Any Social Security Disability Case
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for cancer, you will need comprehensive medical evidence that demonstrates the existence and severity of your condition. Medical records are essential to any disability claim. If you have any specific questions about organizing your medical records to seek SSDI or SSI benefits for cancer, an experienced Arizona Social Security disability attorney can help.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Social Security Disability Lawyer in Arizona
At Pekas Smith: Arizona Disability Attorneys, we are focused on helping people obtain and maintain their financial benefits. If you have any questions about the cancers that qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits, our legal team can help. Give us a call now or contact us directly online for a free, no-obligation review of your case. We provide Social Security disability representation throughout Arizona, including in Phoenix, Tucson, Chandler, Gilbert, and Scottsdale.
