Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases)

The Social Security Administration (SSA) covers malignant neoplastic diseases in Section 13 of the Blue Book. This includes a wide range of cancers and cancer-related conditions.

Cancer, because it is complex, and each patient’s response to treatment is different, is treated on a case-by-case basis. It is worth noting that those who have advanced stages of certain types of cancer may be eligible for a compassionate allowance (CA). Those who qualify for a CA will automatically be approved for disability benefits and will begin receiving benefits much faster than other claimants.

Eligible Cancer Conditions that Usually Qualify for Automatic Approval

• Cancer has returned after initial treatment
• The cancer is inoperable with surgery
• The cancer has metastasized to other places in the body
• The cancer is determined to be resistant to treatment

Cancers That Simply Require a Diagnosis to Be Considered a Compassionate Allowance Are:

• Esophageal Cancer
• Gallbladder Cancer
• Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)
• Liver Cancer
• Mesothelioma
• Pancreatic Cancer
• Small Cell Lung Cancer
• Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer

Cancers That Must Be Inoperable, Recurrent or That Have Spread From the Point of Origin to Be Considered Compassionate Allowances Are:

• Esophageal Cancer
• Gallbladder Cancer
• Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)
• Liver Cancer
• Mesothelioma
• Pancreatic Cancer
• Small Cell Lung Cancer
• Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer

While these lists highlight the common cancers that are considered compassionate allowances, there are others that still may follow under this category that are not covered. It is important to discuss your specific type and stage of cancer with your disability attorney to evaluate if you will qualify to apply as a compassionate allowance condition.

How Long Will I Receive Benefits for Cancer After I am Approved?

Cancer is a unique disability that carries a “three-year rule” in the Social Security Administration. This means that once you are approved, you will continue to receive benefits for at least three years and then will continue to receive benefits after the three years as long as your cancer still meets the impairment requirements laid out in the blue book.