What types of cancer qualify for disability?
An recurrent cancer automatically qualifies for disability benefits under most of the cancer listings, including lung cancer, colon cancer, kidney cancer, prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and uterine and ovarian cancer (one exception to this rule is carcinoma of the breast).
What benefits are cancer patients entitled to?
If you get monthly SSDI payments for cancer or related conditions, you are entitled to cash assistance and possibly several state benefit programs. You may also be eligible for Medicare, even if you are under age 65, or for Medicaid on the basis of need.
Can you lose your job if you have cancer?
Some cancer survivors may be let go from the job or may not be hired. They might be put in lower positions or not get a promotion or benefits. Others may be moved to a less desirable department or face resentment by co-workers. But you can protect yourself from employment job discrimination.
Does cancer qualify for short term disability?
To qualify for short- or long-term disability, you must not be able to work due to your disease, its treatment or its side effects. Depending on the severity and course of treatment, cancer may be a qualifying condition.
Where can a cancer patient get financial help?
The Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition (CFAC) is a group of national organizations that provide financial help to patients. CFAC provides a searchable database of financial resources. CancerCare (800-813-4673) provides limited financial assistance for co-pays, transportation, home care, and child care.
What if I can’t afford my cancer treatment?
Patient Access Network (866-316-7263) assists patients who cannot access the treatments they need because of out-of-pocket health care costs like deductibles, co-payments and coinsurance. Patient Advocate Foundation (800-532-5274) offers a co-payment relief program and seeks to ensure patients’ access to care.
Can I retire early if I have cancer?
Early retirement due to ill health
If you have or have had cancer, you may be able to retire and claim any private pensions early because of ill health. Your illness usually has to be permanent and stopping you from working.
Do you have to tell your job if you have cancer?
You don’t have to tell an employer about your cancer at all. An employer can’t ask about an employee’s medical situation unless they believe a medical condition is negatively affecting job performance or workplace safety. However, your employer needs to know you have cancer for you to be protected by the ADA.
Can you work when you have cancer?
Some people with cancer are able to continue their normal routine, including going to work, while they’re still in treatment. Others find that they need more rest or just feel too sick and cannot do as much. If you can work during treatment, you might find that it helps you feel more like yourself.
Can you get disability with Stage 4 cancer?
In general, any cancer that is Stage IV or terminal will automatically qualify a person to receive disability benefits. A very serious cancer diagnosis qualifies for the Compassionate Allowance program, which expedites the claim for disability benefits to start receiving money quickly.