How Can I Get More Financial Help with Advanced Breast Cancer?

Hello: Please know I’m sorry to hear your cancer is affecting your heart. Have you met with a licensed social worker? They should be able to help you. Ask your doctor for info on how to reach one. For SS help you’ll need to contact them at www.IRS.gov. Best of luck! Joanie B.

I'm sorry to hear about your disease progression. Are you currently getting ssi or ssdi?

*NOT LEGAL ADVICE- NOT AN ATTY* SSDI is usually significantly more money than SSI, but depends on your work history prior to becoming disabled. It is also much easier to get approved for SSDI with breast cancer if the breast cancer is metastatic (which, unfortunately, yours is now, if it has spread to your heart). There is a special provision called "compassionate allowances" which, if your illness is on a list of illnesses put out by SSA, essentially entitles u to automatic SSDI approval. Stages I-III breast cancer r not on this list, but metastatic (Stage IV) breast cancer is. There is still a 5 mo waiting period before the monthly benefits begin paying, but if you had a documented work history w/SSA before becoming ill, switching from SSI to SSDI should increase your payment significantly. For example, I was diagnosed as de novo mBC in May 2023 and was approved for SSDIunder the compassionate allowances provision for benefits starting @$2400/mo--i am only 46 yrs old. Hope this helps.

Financial challenges during cancer treatment are incredibly common, and there are several resources that may help with both immediate bill assistance and potentially increasing monthly benefits. Many cancer organizations offer financial assistance programs, and speaking with a social worker at your treatment center can often connect you with local resources and guidance on navigating benefit programs - they're experienced in helping patients explore all available options during difficult times like these.