Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that originates in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma and you cannot earn a living because of the damaging effects of this disease, the United States government may be able to provide you with disability benefits for qualified applicants.
Under the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSD) program, mesothelioma patients with severe and disabling symptoms can apply to receive monthly benefit checks to help cover living and special needs expenses. For individuals who meet the disability requirements but have not paid into Social Security for long enough, benefits may still be available under the government’s Supplement Security Insurance (SSI) program.
Disabling Effects of Mesothelioma
Like other types of cancer, mesothelioma causes abnormal changes to healthy cells. The abnormal cells reproduce and spread, with serious health implications based on the location of the cancer. This type of cancer can quickly spread to other organs, causing organ failure with the potential to be fatal.
Mesothelioma patients are often unable to work due to a combination of the following symptoms:
- Uncontrolled weight loss
- Chest pain
- Breathing difficulties
- Irregular heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Chronic cough
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Bowel obstruction
- Pain
- Night sweats
Hiring an Attorney to Prove Mesothelioma Disability
Not all cases of mesothelioma disability are straightforward. The Social Security Administration requires a substantial amount of proof before SSD or SSI benefits are granted, and it must be acceptable proof according to their specific standards.
Before you apply for disability benefits or file an SSD appeal, talk to a disability lawyer about your case. Your lawyer can assist you in gathering strong evidence so there’s no question about your right to benefits. Additionally, your attorney can ensure you get the proper medical approvals you need to fulfill the Administration’s strict requirements.
To hire an attorney to represent your mesothelioma disability case, please contact a lawyer near you for in-depth application information and guidance.
Please explore our website and if you have questions or need further assistance, please e-mail the SSD Law Resource Center by completing the form to the right. We are here to help.