Anyone with a functional limitation due to breast cancer may have a chance of being eligible to receive a social security disability benefit. A functional limitation is prevalent if you have problems with undertaking usual tasks required to lead a normal life, including driving, undertaking tasks in the home and going to work.
The symptoms of breast cancer can include thickening or swelling of part of the breast and irritation or dimpling of breast skin. This can make it difficult to do jobs like working at a computer screen that require full concentration all the time.
Qualifying For Disability Benefits With a Functional Limitation
The Social Security Administration (SSA) Blue Book listing for breast cancer is listed under Section 13.10 or for sarcoma of the breast under section 13.04. For anyone who does not meet the requirements found under the Blue Book listing, the SSA has made available the medical vocational allowance. This is specific to you and your job. You will be assessed based on your functional limitations and your skills to see if you are able to work or you are still young enough to learn new skills.
What To Expect When Applying For SSD with a Medical Vocational Allowance
If you decide that the only way you will qualify for social security disability benefits is to access the medical vocational allowance, you will asked to provide the results of a residual functional capacity test (RFC) performed by your doctor. When you take this test you are expected to take part in both physical and mental tests where you may be asked to lift a 50 lb weight, undertake an eyesight test and have your mental ability assessed like your ability to concentrate for a period of time.
Also, the SSA will review your medical and work history and determine how long your breast cancer is expected to persist and whether you can make use of other skills which would allow you to work in another occupation.
Next Steps to Take
You should gather together all of the required documentation which should include work history and medical records which confirms you are unable to work for at least 12 months with breast cancer. Your doctor’s most recent medical report may help you too. If you have had any surgery because of breast cancer or a biopsy, a needle aspiration, a lumpectomy, or exploratory surgery, you must include the records when you file your claim. All results of blood lab work and an X-ray, bone scan, CT scan, MRI, or a PET scan should be included as well.
A Disability Attorney May Increase Your Chances of Success
Filing a claim for SSD using the medical vocational allowance offered by the SSA for breast cancer is never easy to win. However, a disability attorney can work on your behalf to win the claim you deserve for breast cancer. Complete a Free Case Evaluation Form today.
