Can I Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits with Cancer or Diabetes?

We often have new clients who ask whether they can apply for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits when they have a pre-existing condition such as cancer or diabetes. This can be a very troubling issue: if you have a pre-existing illness that still allows you to work but you then suffer a change in condition that prevents you from doing your job, does your pre-existing condition prevent you from obtaining Social Security Disability benefits? Or, does the Social Security Administration (SSA) still allow you to obtain benefits based upon your newly-acquired disability?

We Can Help You Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits if You Have a Pre-Existing Condition

A pre-existing condition should not disqualify you from eligibility for Social Security Disability benefits. Generally speaking, individuals with cancer, diabetes, and other long-term health problems can obtain benefits as long as they meet the standard requirements for having a compensable disability. However, given the added complexities, convincing the SSA of your eligibility can be quite another story. Our Social Security Disability lawyers in Oakland and Sacramento have decades of experience successfully filing and appealing denials of these types of claims.

Understanding Social Security Disability and Long Term Illnesses throughout California, Nevada and the West

It is important to keep in mind that your Social Security Disability benefits may very well be insufficient to cover all of your regular living expenses plus the medical costs associated with your pre-existing condition. In addition, as a recipient of Social Security Disability benefits, you are not eligible to receive Medicate until 24 months after you become eligible for Social Security Disability. As a result, it is highly recommended that you keep your existing insurance coverage until you start receiving Medicare. Since insurance companies are currently allowed to deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions (the law is set to change in 2014), if you lose your insurance you may find yourself unable to pay for the costs of your medical treatment and prescriptions.

Of course, if you have an insurance policy that covers your pre-existing condition, you are entitled to full compensation in accordance with the terms of your policy. If your carrier denies a claim at any point in time, you may have a claim for insurance bad faith.

Speak with One of Our Lawyers About Applying for Social Security Disability Benefits

If you have a pre-existing condition, the attorneys at David Allen & Associates can help you understand your options and enforce your legal rights. Call us now at (877) 876-4800 or contact us online to make an appointment for a free consultation in Oakland, Sacramento, or one of our other office locations.