Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is an important form of financial aid for disabled individuals throughout the United States, including cancer survivors who are unable to work or earn an income in the face of exorbitant medical bills associated with their treatment. If you suffered from cancer in the past, and you are still unable to return to work or earn a steady income, consult our experienced SSDI lawyers at Rechtman & Spevak today for legal help. You may be entitled to SSDI benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA), which can help you cover the cost of your medical bills and lost wages.
Cancer and Medical Expenses, Productivity Losses
According to a recent study released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), between 2008 and 2011, male cancer survivors were saddled with annual medical costs totaling more than $8,000 per person, and productivity losses of $3,700, compared to males without a history of cancer, who had annual medical costs of $3,900 and productivity losses of $2,300. During that same time period, female cancer survivors had $8,400 in medical expenses per person and $4,000 in productivity losses, compared to females without a history of cancer, whose numbers came in at $5,100 and $2,700, respectively.
Financial Burden Associated with Cancer Treatment
The bottom line is that, in addition to the severe physical, emotional and psychological demands associated with a cancer diagnosis and the necessary treatment, those struggling with the disease must also face exorbitant medical costs, which can become a significant financial burden for those who are unable to earn a steady income. The federal SSDI program was designed for this reason specifically, to provide disabled individuals like cancer survivors, who may be unable to work during or after treatment, with a monthly cash benefit, so that they can devote more time and energy to their health without having to worry about the absence of a steady stream of income.
Our Experienced SSDI Attorneys Can Help
Not only does Social Security Disability help with finances – the average monthly SSDI payment in 2014 is $1,148 and that number is expected to increase to $1,165 in 2015 – but it can also help cancer survivors with healthcare, since they will have access to Medicare 24 months after their SSDI benefits begin, and re-employment, since cancer survivors who receive SSDI are also eligible for Social Security’s Ticket to Work program, which provides vocational rehabilitation, career counseling, and job placement and training. If you believe you may be entitled to SSDI benefits for cancer or another debilitating medical condition, contact our knowledgeable SSDI attorneys at Rechtman & Spevak today.
