Resources Available to Those With Childhood Cancer

September has been declared “Childhood Cancer Awareness Month” in an effort to raise awareness about the struggles thousands of American youths face on a daily basis as they battle some form of this deadly disease. That’s why our Social Security Disability lawyers at Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin are working to educate our communities about certain resources that may be available to help families who have a loved one fighting cancer.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) runs several programs that may provide financial assistance to those who have been diagnosed with cancer and have limited income. First, Supplemental Security Income is offered to children who are disabled and who bring in less than $733 or $1,100 in income per month, depending on whether the eligible applicant is single or married.

For those who are eligible and who have a child who has been diagnosed with cancer, you may also be awarded Social Security Disability benefits for dependents and family members. Getting these benefits can be quite simple if the form of cancer the applicant suffers from is listed as one of the many Compassionate Allowances, which are diseases the SSA has deemed severe enough to warrant streamlined processing.

There are many stipulations to receiving either of these benefits and it would be wise to learn more about what options may be available to you. The Social Security Administration provides a Social Security Child Disability Starter Kit that can help you determine if you should consider applying for benefits for your young one.

Our team at Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin understands the difficulties that can accompany a diagnosis of cancer and we’re hopeful this information can help you and your loved ones in your time of need.