Cancer is a disease that can require debilitating treatments, some of which may rob you of your quality of life, including your ability to work. In addition to your medical condition, the inability to work can have a significant negative impact on your life. Your situation may be overwhelming, but you have options. As a person with a disabling medical condition, you may be able to get certain benefits through the Social Security Administration.

Applying for benefits is not always easy, and you may find there are many roadblocks standing between you and the financial support you need. If you cannot work because of cancer and think you should pursue benefits through the Social Security Administration, it can be beneficial to seek help for the process.

How do you know if you qualify?

In order for an Indiana applicant to qualify for disability benefits, you must have evidence that you are unable to work because of a medical condition or physical injury. You must be able to provide evidence of your medical needs, as well as other requirements. It can be helpful to know the following about how the disability process works: 

• You must have a work history that includes paying into the Social Security system.
• Your application must contain clear and substantial evidence of a medical condition that meets the SSA’s definition of disability.
• If you do not have a qualifying work history, you may be able to obtain other types of benefits through Supplemental Security Income.
• The amount of benefits you may be able to receive depends on how long you worked and how much Social Security tax you paid while you worked.

The disability benefits process is complex. It can be frustrating and confusing, but you do not have to walk through it alone. Many applicants find it beneficial to seek guidance as they complete the application and deal with any setbacks that may arise.

Dealing with complications

Many first-time applications come back denied. This is a frustrating setback, but this is not the end of the road for you. You have the option to continue your fight for benefits through request for reconsideration or appeals.

Before you file, you may find it beneficial to seek a complete evaluation of your case in order to better understand qualification requirements. Your cancer diagnosis may have robbed you of your ability to work, but you have the right to seek the financial support you need through Social Security disability benefits.