Social Security does not automatically approve you for disability even if you suffer from cancer.
You still must prove that you are unable to work a full time job in order to be found disabled.
The process for obtaining Social Security Disability is the same whether you have cancer or any other disease.
The first step is to apply for benefits.
You cannot get disability until you apply.
Social Security wants you to apply for benefits on their website.
The second step is to have Social Security review your medical records.
When you have cancer this includes your cancer treatment doctor’s records.
Social Security will look at the stage of your cancer and the treatments you are required to undergo.
It will also be important for your doctor to explain how your treatments effect your energy level, whether it causes nausea, and other side effects.
The doctor should also provide information regarding your prognosis and the extent and nature of treatment you will need in the future.
It will be difficult for you to work if you be sick more than 1 day per month, or will be off task more than 20 percent of the work day.
Your doctor will help you immensely if she can explain why you will be absent from work due to the cancer treatment, or why you will not be able to focus consistently throughout the work day.
Questions about disability? Feel free to contact Illinois Social Security Disability Attorney Dirk May with Williams and Swee at 309-827-4371.