Disability Benefits for Cancer Patients: What the Law Says

A cancer diagnosis can be life-altering physically, emotionally, and financially. Many patients find themselves unable to work while undergoing treatment or managing long-term complications. Fortunately, disability benefits may be available to help ease the financial burden. Understanding your legal rights is the first step in securing the support you need. If you’re navigating this complex process, a knowledgeable Philadelphia disability insurance lawyer from Edelstein Martin & Nelson can guide you through the legal landscape.

Types of Disability Benefits for Cancer Patients

Cancer patients may be eligible for benefits under private disability insurance policies or federal programs like Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income. Each program has its own qualifications and application process.

Common sources of disability benefits include:

• Short-term or long-term disability insurance through your employer or a private policy
• Social Security Disability Insurance for individuals with sufficient work history
• Supplemental Security Income for low-income individuals with limited resources

For many, the biggest challenge isn’t knowing that benefits exist, it’s proving they qualify under the law.

Does Cancer Automatically Qualify You for Disability?

Not always. While certain aggressive or advanced-stage cancers may qualify for automatic approval under the Social Security Administration’s “Compassionate Allowances” program, most cases require documentation of how the illness impairs your ability to work.

To qualify for SSDI or SSI, you must demonstrate that:

• Your condition has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
• You cannot engage in substantial gainful activity due to your medical condition
• Your cancer or treatment side effects prevent you from doing your previous job or any other work

Even if your cancer is in remission, long-term effects such as fatigue, neuropathy, or cognitive issues may still entitle you to benefits.

How a Philadelphia Disability Insurance Lawyer Can Help

Applying for disability benefits while coping with cancer can feel overwhelming. Denials are common, especially if the application lacks sufficient medical evidence or fails to explain how the illness affects your daily functioning. This is where a seasoned Philadelphia disability insurance lawyer becomes invaluable.

An attorney can:

• Review your insurance policy or SSDI eligibility
• Collect and organize medical documentation from your treatment team
• Prepare a detailed claim or appeal that aligns with legal requirements
• Represent you in hearings or negotiations, if necessary

In many cases, legal guidance can be the difference between approval and a frustrating denial.

Talk to a Philadelphia Disability Insurance Lawyer Today

If cancer has left you unable to work, don’t wait to explore your legal options. Our qualified attorney can help you understand your rights, evaluate your eligibility, and fight for the benefits you deserve. 

Call Edelstein Martin & Nelson at (215) 731-9900 today to speak with an experienced Philadelphia disability insurance lawyer about your case. You’ve fought hard through treatment; now let a skilled attorney fight for the benefits you’re entitled to. Your focus should be on healing, not paperwork. Let our trusted Philadelphia disability insurance lawyer handle the rest.