Many forms of cancer are extremely disabling and can form the basis for a successful Social Security Disability claim. The simple fact that someone has been diagnosed with cancer does not automatically entitle him or her to Social Security Disability benefits.

There are two ways for claims based on a diagnosis of cancer to be approved. First, if your diagnosis meets one of adult listing found in Section 13.00 of the “Blue Book” you will be deemed disabled under Social Security’s rules and qualify for benefits.

If your condition does not specifically meet one of the “Blue Book” criteria, you may still be approved if you can demonstrate that your disability is severe enough to prevent you from performing past relevant work and you have any job skills that do not translate into other occupations that you can physically perform. You must also demonstrate that you have a disability that has lasted or is expected to last one year or longer.

If you have been diagnosed with cancer and would like to investigate the possibility of entitlement to Social Security Disability benefits, we would be happy to speak to you regarding your situation.