Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive form of cancer that develops primarily in the lungs or abdomen. Exposure to asbestos can significantly increase the risk of developing malignant mesothelioma. While the symptoms of mesothelioma may be treated, there is no known cure. Because of the severity of the symptoms associated with mesothelioma, the condition may qualify you for social security disability benefits.
Firstyou must meet the non-medical guidelines.
To qualify for disability benefits, you must meet both medical and non-medical guidelines. To meet the non-medical guidelines, you must have workedanearned enough work credits to be covered by Social Security Disability Insurance (which can vary by age) or your household income and assets must be low enough to qualify for Supplemental Security Income.
To qualify under the medical rules, you must have a diagnosis supported by diagnostic testing.
Simply suspecting that you have mesothelioma is not enough. The medical guidelines require that you have a diagnosis that is supported by clinical and diagnostic testing. Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms are similar to other medical conditions. Tests such as CT scans, x-rays, imaging, and MRIs may be used to aid in the diagnosis, but a biopsy is required to fully diagnose the condition.
If you meet the non-medical guidelines and have a valid diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma, you qualify for benefits under Adult Listing 13.15A.
However, you may still benefit from having an experienced attorney assist you with your claim. Social Security moves slowly and an experienced attorney is capable of quickly identifying the necessary information to show you qualify for benefits.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma and are seeking social security disability benefits, please contact us for a free consultation.