If you have cancer in Nebraska, you may qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI and SSDI, as well as state programs for medical and financial help. Eligibility depends on your diagnosis, work history, and income. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) with cancer in Nebraska, your cancer must be severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) lists many cancers in its Compassionate Allowances (CAL) program, which means you can get approved quickly if your cancer is on the list. Even if your cancer is not listed, you may still qualify if it is just as severe. You must also meet income and work history rules. For SSDI, you need enough work credits. For SSI, your income and assets must be low. In 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) and can disqualify you from benefits[1][7].
In Nebraska, if you are denied SSI because your cancer is expected to last less than 12 months, you may still qualify for the Aid to the Aged, Blind, or Disabled (AABD) program. This state program offers monthly payments and medical coverage for people who are blind or disabled but do not meet federal SSI rules. The Disabled Persons and Family Support (DPFS) program can also help with services like home care or equipment if you have a severe, chronic disability, including cancer. These programs are run by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)[4][6].
ABLE accounts let people with cancer save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for housing, education, and medical costs. Nebraska offers ABLE accounts through the state treasury[3].
In 2025, earning more than $1,620 per month ($2,700 if blind) is considered Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) and can disqualify you from SSI or SSDI. SSI has strict income and asset limits. SSDI is not means-tested, but SGA rules still apply[1][7].
You must report any changes in your condition, income, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Always update your records with SSA and Nebraska DHHS[1].
Many cancers are on the Compassionate Allowances list, so you can get SSI or SSDI approval quickly. Check the SSA list to see if your cancer qualifies[7].
If you are denied SSI, Nebraska’s AABD and DPFS programs can help with monthly payments, medical coverage, and daily living costs[4][6].
Yes, if your cancer is severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. Many cancers are on the Compassionate Allowances list, so approval is often fast[7].
SSI pays up to $967 per month in 2025. SSDI pays more if you have a work history. State programs like AABD and DPFS offer extra help if you are denied SSI[2][4][6].
You may still qualify if your cancer is just as severe. The SSA will review your medical records to decide if you meet the rules[1][7].
Yes, there are work incentives. You can try working for up to 9 months without losing benefits. After that, your earnings are checked to see if you are doing Substantial Gainful Activity[3][7].
If your cancer is expected to last less than 12 months, you may still qualify for Nebraska’s AABD program. This offers monthly payments and medical coverage[4].
Yes, the DPFS program can help with home care, equipment, and other services. The AABD program offers monthly payments and medical coverage if you are denied SSI[4][6].
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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Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. If denied for SSI, apply for AABD or DPFS through DHHS[4][6][7].
Yes, if you get SSI, you may also qualify for Medicaid. If you get SSDI for 24 months, you qualify for Medicare[2][7].
It’s a fast-track for people with severe cancers. If your cancer is on the list, you can get approved for SSI or SSDI quickly[7].
Yes, you must report any changes in your condition, income, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Always update your records with SSA and Nebraska DHHS[1].
