Social Security Disability benefits are not automatically provided for individuals with terminal illnesses. However, the process is often streamlined given the severity and nature of the illness so that individuals can receive the financial help they need in these situations. The Law Center for Social Security Disability can help you avoid obstacles and make sure there are no delays with your application.
How to Get Social Security Disability Benefits for a Terminal Illness
Time is of the essence when you are seeking Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits after receiving a terminal diagnosis. To receive benefits, you will first need to submit a Social Security Disability benefits application. This should include all information related to your diagnosis, your doctor’s information, your information, and more. Once submitted, the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) system will flag terminal cases and expedite those applications. The system is designed to flag various types of illnesses and their corresponding conditions so they can be prioritized for review and processing.
How Much Compensation Can be Recovered for a Terminal Illness Through Social Security Disability
The amount of Social Security disability benefits you may receive for a terminal illness is typically dependent on your work history and age. Individuals receive Social Security credits for the length of time they are in the workforce, and the age at which an illness is diagnosed dictates how many credits are needed to draw disability. The specific payment amount is then generally calculated by averaging your lifetime earnings. With a terminal illness, these calculations are expedited so that you can receive a determination faster. It is important to note, though, that there is typically a 5-month waiting period before payments can begin. However, this period of time may be waived for ALS.
Family Members May be Able to Recover Survivor Benefits Through Social Security
Surviving family members may be able to recover survivor benefits through Social Security after an individual dies from a terminal illness. As long as the decedent had worked and paid Social Security taxes while they were alive, then spouses, unmarried children, disabled children, and dependent parents may be able to recover these benefits. Benefit compensation is generally based on the earnings and workplace duration of the decedent. Depending on the type of relationship to the deceased individual, survivor benefits may be a varying percentage of the decedent’s earnings.
Consult The Law Center for Social Security Disability Today
Facing a terminal illness and its implications can be a difficult and emotional time. Navigating the expenses that go with a terminal illness can further exacerbate the challenges you are dealing with. To make sure that you can receive your benefits as quickly as possible, The Law Center for Social Security Disability will help you with the application and handle logistics and communications on your behalf. We can also help families seeking survivor benefits as well. Contact us and let our compassionate team help you get the benefits you need.