CommunitiesLiving with Metastatic Breast CancerConsidering Disability vs. Retirement During Cancer Treatment

Considering Disability vs. Retirement During Cancer Treatment

LH

Community Member

a year ago

Hi hope all are doing well. I am 62. Currently in chemo started my second cycle last week. Mbc liver spine hip. So far doing okay. Currently on short disability. Thinking about applying for disability versus retiring. Mainly because it would be my only income. My husband passed away 2 years ago and I had to pay for much of his medical so I have no other retirement. Oncologist states after I complete my cycles I will be on taxol for maintenance (unknown time frame). Has anyone done disability? How did it go and how long did it take?

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accepted answer

Accepted Answer

This sounds like such a challenging situation, especially managing treatment decisions alongside financial concerns. Many community members have navigated similar choices between disability and retirement benefits during cancer treatment, and their experiences vary depending on individual circumstances and timing. Consider reaching out to a social worker at your treatment center or contacting the Social Security Administration directly to understand the specific requirements and timelines for both options, as they can provide guidance based on your particular situation and help you make the most informed decision for your needs.

3+ patients found this helpful

VM

Community Member

7 months ago

I went on short term disability for 6 months. Then, long term disability for 18 months. Then, SSI disability until I turned 65. When I was on long term disability I had to pay my own health insurance. Expensive. SS disability Medicare took over

NG

Community Member

7 months ago

I am currently on disability

RH

Community Member

7 months ago

I was on STD for 5 months and had no income for last month. Just got approved for SSDI and should get confirmation of LTD benefits soon. Switched to my husband’s health insurance. I have TNBC with Mets to liver and am so glad I stopped working in June to have more time with family.

CA

Community Member

2 months ago

This sounds like such a challenging situation, especially managing treatment decisions alongside financial concerns. Many community members have navigated similar choices between disability and retirement benefits during cancer treatment, and their experiences vary depending on individual circumstances and timing. Consider reaching out to a social worker at your treatment center or contacting the Social Security Administration directly to understand the specific requirements and timelines for both options, as they can provide guidance based on your particular situation and help you make the most informed decision for your needs.

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