If you have cancer in Indiana, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available for Indiana residents with cancer.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked in jobs covered by Social Security, have a disability that stops you from working for at least 12 months, and meet the work credit requirement (usually 20 credits in the last 10 years)[^1]. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and be unable to work due to your disability[^2]. Cancer is listed in the Social Security Blue Book under Section 13.00, and certain types or stages may qualify automatically if they meet the criteria[^3].
In Indiana, eligibility for disability programs is determined by the Indiana Disability Determination Bureau (DDB) in coordination with the Social Security Administration (SSA)[^4]. The DDB reviews medical evidence to decide if your cancer meets the federal definition of disability. Indiana also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, including those with cancer, which can provide home and community-based services[^5]. State employees may qualify for Short-Term and Long-Term Disability benefits if cancer prevents them from working[^6].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Indiana residents can open an ABLE account to pay for disability-related expenses like medical care, housing, and education[^11].
You must report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much, you may have to pay it back. Report changes promptly to the SSA and Indiana DDB[^13].
Contact the Indiana Disability Determination Bureau at 800-622-4968 for personalized help with your application.
Yes, if your cancer prevents you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI. Indiana also offers Medicaid waivers and state disability programs for people with cancer.
Gather medical records, contact the Indiana Disability Determination Bureau, and apply online at SSA.gov or at a local SSA office. Submit all required forms and documentation.
For SSDI, you cannot earn more than the SGA limit, which is expected to be $1,530 per month in 2025. For SSI, there are strict income and resource limits.
Yes, you can work during a trial work period and still get full benefits. After that, you can earn up to the SGA limit without losing benefits.
An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Indiana residents can open an ABLE account for medical, housing, and education costs.
SSDI is for workers with a qualifying disability, while SSI is for low-income individuals with disabilities. Both can provide monthly payments for people with cancer.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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The process can take several months. The Indiana DDB may take 6 to 8 months to decide if your condition meets the criteria for disability.
Yes, if you qualify for SSDI or SSI, you may also qualify for Medicaid. Indiana offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, including cancer.
If denied, you can appeal within 60 days. You may need to provide more medical evidence or attend a hearing.
Yes, the Ticket to Work program and trial work period let you test returning to work without losing benefits. Indiana also offers vocational rehabilitation services.
