The Social Security Administration (SSA) has very strict limitations on when it provides financial support through Social Security Disability (SSD). If you have cancer, you may qualify for SSD benefits, but you may also face a denial of benefits. There are numerous reasons why SSD denies cancer claims, including inaccurate or missing information, lack of proof of work history, or limited evidence.
The following are some of the most common reasons SSD denies cancer claims, as seen by an Oklahoma City Social Security benefits attorney.
Insufficient Evidence
The most common reason for a denial of SSD benefits for a cancer patient is a lack of supporting, accurate, and timely medical documentation. The SSA will require a clear diagnosis, backed by lab tests, imaging, and detailed oncologist notes. They will use the information supplied to verify that a person has a debilitating cancer.
In addition to having cancer, you must also provide clear evidence that the medical condition makes it impossible to do the work you were doing. This helps to show the severity of your illness and the impact on your financial earnings. If your records are vague or incomplete in these two areas, it will lead to a denial of your claim.
Meeting the Strict Definition of Disability
SSA requires that you demonstrate you cannot work. That is more than just being unable to do your previous job. You must show that you cannot engage in gainful employment right now. Factors like your age and education, as well as experience, can play a role in qualifying for benefits as well.
In addition, you must show that your disability will continue for at least 12 months or will result in your death. If you cannot demonstrate this, it can be challenging to prove to SSA that you qualify for SSD benefits.
Enough Work History
You must also meet the SSA’s requirements for work credits. Most people can earn up to 4 work credits per year, based on the amount of time they work and earnings. You need 40 work credits, 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years, to qualify for SSD benefits. You may face a denial of benefits if you do not meet this threshold.
Failing to Follow the Doctor’s Prescribed Therapy
The SSA also expects you to take whatever steps are recommended by your doctor to recover or maintain your health. If you fail to follow your doctor’s prescribed treatment, the SSA will consider that in your application. It may indicate that your condition is not as severe as you claim. It may also show you are failing to cooperate by providing the requested information from the SSA or are missing appointments.
You Are Working
Even if you qualify for SSD and start receiving benefits, they can deny and terminate payments to you if the SSA learns you are working. If you have a substantial improvement in your health and your doctor says you can return to work, that can lead to a denial of continued care through SSD.
Because there are so many factors at play, and getting these benefits is so important, work with a Social Security disability attorney to determine what your rights are. If you already received a denial, it may be possible to appeal that decision with the guidance of an attorney. The sooner you act, the better to prove your right to SSD benefits.