Erica was puzzled when she learned she had lymphoma. She had no idea what the disease was. More importantly, Erica did not know how lymphoma would affect her ability to support herself and her son financially. After researching her disability options, she decided to apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). She also talked to a disability to find out more about the connection between SSDI and lymphoma.
What Is Lymphoma?
As the most common kind of blood cancer, more than 100,000 Americans are diagnosed with lymphoma every year. However, there are several types of lymphoma:
- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia/Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (CLL/SLL)
- Hodgkin Lymphoma (HL)
- Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL)
Lymphoma is complex, with each of the three types mentioned above manifesting in numerous subtypes.
People with lymphoma may have some or all of the following symptoms:
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever and chills
- Unexplained weight loss
- Unusual sweating
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Itching
Survival rates for lymphoma vary depending on the type of lymphoma, age, overall health, the staging of the cancer, and treatment options. In any event, it is usually life-changing.
Does SSDI Cover Lymphoma?
This disease does appear on the Listing of Impairments that guides decisions made by the Social Security Administration (Social Security). Section 13.05 covers lymphoma, except for T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma, which is covered by Section 13.06.
To receive SSDI, lymphoma patients must prove:
- Their condition is “persistent or recurrent following initial anticancer therapy.”
- Their anticancer treatment failed within twelve months.
- They failed to go into remission, or their lymphoma recurred within 12 months (Hodgkin lymphoma)
Also, people who had a bone marrow or stem cell transplant may be considered disabled for 12 months.
Someone with lymphoma might get SSDI benefits if they meet all other criteria. For example, Social Security requires that people:
- Have a medical condition that has lasted for 12 months, will last for at least 12 months, or is expected to end with death
- Be unable to work
- Have the necessary number of work credits
It’s complicated.
Learn More About SSDI and Lymphoma and Other Medical Conditions
Your disability lawyer can explain how to apply for benefits. But the application process can be long and frustrating, so you need someone on your side. The attorneys at The Law Offices of Martin Taller have more than 50 years’ experience. For a free consultation, call us at 714-385-8100. Though our office is located in Anaheim, we assist clients throughout Southern California.
