Insurance/Disability

[Halfpint2]

I am 59, Stage IV Breast cancer metasticized to my lungs. I'm still working and receive medical benefits through my employer. Can I also qualify for disability, social security and Medicare because of my diagnosis and still work?

[PJBinMI]

When I was diagnosed, in 2004, the answer to that question was "no." And I had to wait until I was no longer working to apply for Social Security Disability. But the good news in that is that with this diagnosis, we are fast tracked for SSD application and approval. There is a six month wait until benefits actually start, and then a 24 month wait from that time for Medicare coverage. (this is one reason financial advisers recommend having a 6 month of living expenses in easily accessed investments.) I was given an appt to apply for SSD at the SS office the day after I called, the day after I stopped working. The other people in the waiting room at SS had been waiting at least 6-8 weeks for their appts! And I was approved within 2 weeks, which is amazing! I had copies of pathology and scan reports, the "evidence" that I have mbc. It's possible to apply on line now. The good part of applying in person is that you can hand deliver test reports. The SS website has information about what information is needed for application. Since going on SSD, those checks have gone directly into my checking account without any problems, even when we changed banks. And when I became 65, I just continued with the same income and same arrangement for direct deposit. SS does have some requirements about working. I don't know what those are currently but visiting the website will be really helpful to you. If you have some kind of long term disability insurance thru your employer, or short term, that will help alot during that 6 month wait.

I have never regretted retiring early ! I was 58 and just a few years into a second career that I loved. But I realized that self care had to be my number one priority and that I had to stop working. I miss some people but I have really enjoyed being able to plan my days around my energy level. But....I am married and my husband and I are frugal and have not had money problems since I stopped working. If I were on my own, it might have been more difficult. Nobody can tell you what is best for you! A big decision! And do talk with your onc before deciding to stop working. Some are not as supportive as they should be, and they generally need to fill out forms for us!

[03Amegios]

From what I understand you can still work and draw disiability but you have to make a certain amount. Call your social security office and they can tell you.

[Meadesmith in reply to 03Amegios]

the amount of income is 1170$ per month

[Partia]

You qualify but I don't think you can still work.

[Halfpint2]

You answered many of my questions. Do you automatically qualify for Medicare or Medicaid, also?

[Halfpint2]

Thank you

[missa13]

Just FYI--I just found out that the Metastatic Breast Cancer Alliance is going to have a free webinar on insurance and disability on June 28 with a cancer rights attorney. If you're interested let me know and I'll give you the details.

[CMDec in reply to missa13]

I'm interested please send me the info thanks

[Halfpint2 in reply to missa13]

Yes, I'm very interested.

[Boogitymom in reply to missa13]

I'd be interested

[Susia59]

I'd be interested in that seminar. I'd appreciate the information. Thank you.

[missa13]

Sure, Susia59 and CMDec the link to register is here: register.gotowebinar.com/re...

[Halfpint2]

You've been extremely helpful and informative. You weren't discouraging at all. My employer lets me work from home and I do accounting for 7 offices. I'm very blessed with the job that I have also.

May I ask if your lung mets are from breast cancer and how long have you been on the mets journey?

[Fpmeehan]

I believe that patients with a Stage IV metastatic breast cancer diagnosis do automatically qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. It's one of the exceptions that's listed under qualifications. Check the website. Once I was diagnosed and had back surgery to remove two vertebraes that were destroyed by breast cancer, I applied for California's short term disability benefits, then my long term disability kicked in after six months. I draw 60% of my salary at the time of my disability which is comprised of SSD and private insurance. My symptoms don't allow me to work full time anymore.

[SDE59]

All of this is very helpful! I am 59 & hope to work until 62 then go on short term disability thru work, then on long term. Also on faslodex/iBrance. Feel ok mist days except for the fatigue

[Halfpint2]

Did you have side effects from Ibrance?

[Halfpint2]

Thank you!

[Meadesmith]

most stage four bc or mbc patients are seeing immediate approval in 2016 and 2017. you can apply onine but if you check the box, for terminal disease , they will make a phone appt and fast track you.