If you have prostate cancer and you are sure you will not be working in paid employment for at least 12 months you may have a claim for disability benefits which may be approved by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
It is never that easy to get your case approved unless you meet criteria set by the SSA for disability benefits. There are several signs that you should check which could mean you may be approved for disability benefits
Back to topSign 1: You Meet Non-Medical Requirements
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a benefit available for some workers who have a disability like prostate cancer which is likely to persist for at least 12 months.
It is only provided based on accumulated work credits. If you have sufficient work credits for SSDI gained throughout your working life you might be approved for disability benefits.
For every year worked when FICA taxes are paid into the Social Security system work 4 work credits per year will be credited to the worker. To qualify for SSDI for prostate cancer, 20 work credits are required.
Back to topSign 2: You Have Sufficient Medical Evidence
Some people who have a prostate cancer may be denied disability benefits because they have failed to provide sufficient evidence which proves that they cannot work for at least 12 months.
Providing a doctor’s medical report describing your diagnosis of prostate cancer and why you are unable to work for at least 12 months is an important part of the evidence required to confirm your disability.
Also, results of the two commonest prostate cancer tests may be required. One is the specific antigen (PSA) blood test which measures levels of PSA which could indicate the presence of prostate cancer.
The other is a digital rectal examination (DRE), which involves inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into your rectum to check for any enlargement of the prostate.
Back to topSign 3: You Cannot Work For At Least 12 Months
If you have the evidence available that you cannot work for at least 12 months due to the presence of prostate cancer you may have a chance of getting your social security disability benefit approved.
Back to topSign 4: You Meet a Blue Book Listing
Prostate cancer is listed in the Blue Book under Section 13.24. Those who believe they are entitled to SSDI must have prostate cancer that is advancing or has returned even though it has been treated or if the cancer has spread to other organs.
Back to topSign 5: You are Working With a Disability Lawyer
Even if you believe the SSA should automatically approve your claim for social security disability benefits for prostate cancer this isn’t always the case. It will conduct a detailed investigation of your case.
If you work with a disability lawyer they know the signs that should ensure your claim is approved for disability benefits and will help you compile the evidence that proves your prostate cancer won’t allow you to work for at least 12 months.
Back to topAdditional Resources
- Denied Disability with Prostate Cancer
- Prostate Cancer and Social Security Disability
- Permanent Restrictions After Prostate Cancer
