Understanding Social Security’s Definition of Disability

To qualify for SSDI or SSI, you must meet Social Security’s strict definition of disability. According to the SSA, you are considered disabled if:

• You cannot do substantial gainful activity (SGA), meaning you cannot work and earn above a certain income threshold due to your condition.
• Your disability is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death.
• Your medical condition must be severe enough to prevent you from performing basic work activities.

Does Cancer Qualify for Social Security Disability?

The short answer is: Yes, cancer can qualify you for Social Security Disability benefits. However, it depends on the type, stage, and severity of the cancer. The SSA has a Listing of Impairments that includes various types of cancer. If your cancer falls under one of these categories, you may be able to qualify for disability benefits.

Some examples of cancers that are listed in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments include:

• Lung cancer
• Breast cancer
• Lymphoma (Hodgkin’s or non-Hodgkin’s)
• Leukemia
• Esophageal cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Pancreatic cancer

If your type of cancer is not explicitly listed, the SSA will consider whether it is equivalent in severity to a listed condition.

How the SSA Evaluates Cancer for Disability Benefits

If your cancer is not listed in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments, the SSA will assess whether your cancer meets the following criteria:

• Severity of the condition: The SSA will look at how advanced your cancer is, the treatment you’re undergoing, and whether it limits your ability to function in a work setting. For instance, if your cancer is in the advanced stages, is unresponsive to treatment, or is causing severe symptoms, you may qualify for benefits.
• Treatment side effects: The SSA will also take into account the side effects of your cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. These treatments can cause severe fatigue, weakness, nausea, and cognitive difficulties, which may prevent you from working.
• Functional limitations: The SSA evaluates how your cancer or its treatment affects your ability to perform basic job tasks. This includes factors such as mobility, concentration, lifting, or standing for long periods. The more severe your limitations, the higher your chances of qualifying for disability benefits.

How to Prove Your Cancer is Disabling

To qualify for disability benefits, you’ll need to provide solid medical evidence to prove that your cancer is disabling. Here’s what you should include in your application:

• Medical Diagnosis: A formal diagnosis from your doctor, detailing the type and stage of cancer.
• Medical Records: Provide complete medical records, including lab test results, imaging (like X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans), pathology reports, and treatment plans.
• Treatment History: Provide documentation of all treatments you’ve received, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, or other cancer treatments.
• Doctor’s Statements: A statement from your treating physician explaining how your cancer or its treatment affects your ability to work is essential. The more specific the doctor is about your limitations, the better.
• Functional Limitations: Detailed information on how your cancer or treatment limits your ability to do basic tasks. This may include difficulty lifting, standing, walking, or maintaining focus due to fatigue or cognitive issues.

The Social Security Disability Process for Cancer

The process for applying for Social Security Disability benefits with cancer is similar to applying for other types of disabilities. Here’s an overview of the process:

• Submit Your Application: Apply online through the SSA’s website, or you can apply by phone or in person at your local SSA office. Make sure to provide all the necessary information, including your medical records and work history.
• Wait for a Decision: After submitting your application, the SSA will review your case and determine if you meet the eligibility requirements. This can take several months, so it’s important to be patient.
• Request a Hearing (if denied): If your claim is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). This is your opportunity to present your case in person and provide any additional evidence that may support your claim.

How Long Does It Take to Get Approved for Social Security Disability for Cancer?

The approval process for Social Security Disability can be lengthy, and many claims are initially denied. However, cancer is one of the conditions that may qualify for compassionate allowances – a fast-tracked approval process for certain serious conditions. If your cancer is considered one of these conditions, the approval process could be much faster.

• Initial Decision: The initial decision typically takes about 3 to 6 months, but it could be longer depending on your case and the SSA’s workload.
• Compassionate Allowance: If your cancer qualifies for the SSA’s Compassionate Allowances Program, your claim may be processed in weeks rather than months.

What Happens After Approval?

If your application for Social Security Disability is approved, you’ll begin receiving monthly benefits. Your benefit amount will depend on your previous work history (for SSDI) or financial need (for SSI). In some cases, you may be entitled to retroactive benefits for the months between your initial claim and approval.

Ongoing Disability Reviews

Once you’re approved for disability benefits due to cancer, the SSA may periodically conduct Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) to determine if your condition has improved. If your cancer goes into remission or if you can return to work, your benefits may be reduced or stopped. However, if your cancer remains a severe disability, you will continue to receive benefits.