Representing Clients Nationally
Cancer is one of the most common diseases to afflict Americans. The American Cancer Society reports that there will be an estimated 1,665,540 new cancer cases diagnosed and 585,720 cancer deaths across the U.S. in 2014.
This pervasive disease remains a serious problem for many Americans, and the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes it as such, allowing applicants to apply for cancer disability benefits if they are unable to work.
Some individuals may have a short recovery period, while others may suffer for months or years as a result of their cancer. Because there is substantial variation in the type of cancer, the SSA will take a broad range of factors into consideration when determining benefits.
You should contact the skilled, Knoxville-based disability attorneys at the Disability Advantage Group, for immediate assistance.
Different Types Of Cancer
Certain types of serious cancer – metastatic brain cancer, pancreatic cancer, mesothelioma or inflammatory breast cancer or any type of inoperable cancer – are severe and the SSA will often approve an individual for benefits with a basic diagnosis.
Other, less serious types of cancer that can be treated with surgery or irradiation may require more information in order to prove that an individual is impaired to the point of requiring cancer disability benefits.
Like other conditions, a basic determination will be based on whether an individual has worked, is currently unable to work, or how long he or she will be incapacitated for.
Additionally, an applicant will have to demonstrate that he or she is incapacitated in such a way that he or she cannot perform normal job functions.
Compassionate Allowances
In some cases, a claim may be expedited using a compassionate allowances clause. For certain forms of malignant cancer, and other serious conditions where there is clear, overwhelming evidence that an applicant is unable to work, he or she may apply for a compassionate allowance.
A compassionate allowance is not a separate program from the SSDI program and is administered by the SSA in much the same way as other benefits. A lawyer can lay out the facts of your case and give you a better idea of your chances of receiving benefits.
Contact the helpful, experienced staff at the Disability Advantage Group, to schedule a free consultation. Call 865-566-0800 to get the assistance you need.