Cancer

Social Security Disability Based On A Diagnosis Of Cancer

In presenting a claim for Social Security disability based on a diagnosis of cancer, keep in mind that the base-line requirement for disability is that a person is unable to work, or is expected to be unable to work for at least 12 consecutive months. A claim can be filed before the first 12 months elapses, if the treating physician says the treatment will be disabling for at least 12 months.

As treatment modalities have evolved, some cancers have become quite treatable. Some patients have a few very intense months of treatment, and then become functional again. Such a patient would not be eligible for disability. If the prognosis is uncertain, we sometimes recommend application for benefits – one can always withdraw the application. The wait for decisions is so lengthy that it is not advisable to begin the process a year into a treatment that did not go as well as planned.

Social Security has a new program for “compassionate allowances.” This is meant to fast-track claims for people with certain diagnoses. One example is Stage 4 ovarian cancer, and it also includes many stage four cancers. Generally, if a cancer is inoperable and not likely to respond to chemotherapy, radiation or other treatments, the claim will be granted.

There is a delicate balance in the decision to apply for disability with a cancer diagnosis. Often people want to see themselves in the stream of recovery, and declaring themselves disabled can seem like giving up hope. However, the gain of a monthly benefit payment and medical benefits should not be disregarded. Consider that these federal insurance programs may help pay for treatment, and reduce overall stress.

Often people are months into a cancer diagnosis before they think of seeking assistance from Social Security. The course of chemotherapy and radiation is cumulative, unpredictable and often debilitating in itself. Depression is a common side-effect and should be documented.

Clinical records alone do not paint the whole picture. A patient diary is useful. Observations from family and friends are helpful to establish ongoing weakness, nausea and fatigue. The combined information is needed to show the true effect of the disease and treatment on the capacity to work.

Please consult with us if you are in need of their Social Security disability insurance and Medicaid or Medicare benefits to help fight this disease. Contact us today.

Further Resources:

American Cancer Society – National non-profit dedicated to the fight against cancer.

National Cancer Institute – Government agency that is loaded with all information related to cancer.

Disability Evaluation Under Social Security – Most cancers fall under the 13.00 listing under the Listings of Impairments.

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I will be eternally forever grateful for this Law Firm
I had been in a 5-year battle I had lost everything
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My life was completely changed I felt like I had a voice I felt that I mattered I felt that my disability was causing me not to be seen or heard, they took every word every issue that I had [said] they worked with me to broke things down when I didn't understand and they never made me feel like I was not important. I won my case with a favorable approval they truly go above and beyond this Law Firm makes you feel like a person even when the world disables you out they do not and I will be forever grateful to them because now I can provide for my family and myself again I TRULY THANK Matt Grundy's Law Firm from the bottom of my heart.”

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I cannot say enough
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I contacted his office October 2020, because I had and still am, fighting breast cancer. I had numerous surgeries, still doing chemo, finished radiation and still fighting the fight. They took care of everything and that was such a blessing because I was too sick and weak to do it myself. I would absolutely recommend them and I am so grateful that a friend referred them to me. They were always polite and punctual returning my calls and emails. Don’t go it alone, let them take care of it, reserve your strength to fight for your health.”

— D.S. Kansas City

Dear Matt

I want to take a moment to say I appreciate all you do for clients (me) throughout the SSD process. You provided me top-shelf representation, case knowledge and follow up. Thank you!”

— A.S. Leawood, KS

A friend referred
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He was amazing!

I felt the weight lift off my shoulders. He was caring and efficient and took over the whole process. He handled all correspondence and was my voice in my hearing. I was ecstatic when Matt got my disability approved. I wish I had started with Matt before I ever filed.”

— W.T. Kansas City

After being denied trying to file on my own
I was fortunate to have Grundy Disability Group
recommended to me.

A short survey and a visit then they took control of my case. This was the best decision I’ve ever made. Matt answered all my questions without hesitation and gave me confidence about my case. I’ve already recommended them to others and will do so gladly. Thank you Matt and his team!”

— W.S. Kansas City

I had a great experience
working with this office.

They are thorough, and get the job done with the least amount of stress on the client as possible. I would recommend them to anyone I know who needs help navigating their SSDI claim. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”

— W.W. Kansas City

I’m epileptic and you recently
just helped me get disability.

I just wanted to email you guys and say thank you guys so much! I appreciate your hard work and dedication.! you guys have helped me get my income back since I haven’t been able to work. Now I can pay my bills again and get caught up again that is a relief. thank you guys again so much god bless you and all your families.”

— A.D. Kansas City

Thanks again for
your help on all this.

From the first conversation I had with Susan Frank, whose advice set me on a course to lay the groundwork of a successful claim – months before I hired you. I spoke to a couple of other places before I spoke to her and there was no comparison. The difference between my initial contact with Susan VS the others was a personal connection and actual value in the phone call. It was informative, connected and extremely helpful. This built trust and made my decision to choose your organization easy. My ongoing dealings with you only confirmed my choice. Matt is extremely connected with his clients and communicates promptly and thoughtfully.”

— T.C. Kansas City

To the Law Office of Matthew R. Grundy

I, Delisa Cadenhead, would like to extend my appreciation for the dedicated work I received from your firm. Thank you for standing by me and my case. I hope you and your firm have many blessings. Thank you very much!”

— Delisa Cadenhead

Matt, Regina, Nina, and everyone else that helped work on my disability case:

You were ALL an awesome, cohesive, genuine TEAM and I appreciate all your help!”

— Shannon D. Bonner Springs, KS

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    Helpful Information

    Frequently Asked Questions

    When do I apply for Social Security disability?

    Our Social Security disability lawyer in charge of your case will work tirelessly to determine what went wrong. Our Social Security attorneys will then refile your claim, making sure everything is in order. Our Social Security lawyers will not stop until you are successful in claiming the benefits you deserve. Read More

    You have to have been disabled, or expect to be disabled, for at least one year to be eligible. So, if you expect to be out of work for one year or more on account of illness or injury, you should file for Social Security disability benefits. Read More

    To apply for Social Security disability benefits, you will need to complete an application for Social Security Benefits and the Disability Report. You can also print the Disability Report, complete it and return it to your local Social Security office. Read More

    Cases are generally handled on a contingency basis. That means the representative receives a fee only if you win your case. Normally the fee is 25% of your back benefits and must be approved by Social Security. Read More

    You do not have to wait until the workers’ compensation ends, and you should not wait that long. Read More