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Oregon • Chronic Illness
If you have cancer in Oregon, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and paid leave. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with cancer in Oregon, you must have a medically determinable impairment that prevents you from doing substantial gainful activity (SGA). The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a list called the Blue Book to decide if your cancer qualifies. If your cancer is advanced, in remission, or has lasting effects, you may be eligible for SSI or SSDI. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI requires a work history. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month, or $2,700 if you are blind. If you earn more than this, you may not qualify for SSDI. SSI has strict income and resource limits: $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. Children with cancer may also qualify for SSI if their condition meets the criteria. The SSA reviews your medical records and work history to decide eligibility. [^1][^2][^3][^4]
Oregon has specific rules for disability benefits for people with cancer. If you are a public safety worker (police or firefighter), the definition of disability changed in 2025. Now, you are considered disabled if you cannot do the job you had when you became disabled, not any job. If you are on disability and earn irregular income, you can make up to 10% of your previous monthly salary each month without losing benefits. If you earn more, your benefits may end. Oregon also offers paid medical leave through its state program, which can provide up to 14 weeks of partial wage replacement for cancer treatment or recovery. Medicaid waivers are available to help with long-term care needs for people with cancer. [^5][^6][^7]
The Oregon ABLE Savings Program lets people with disabilities, including cancer, save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In 2025, you can contribute up to $15,060 or your total wages, whichever is less. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other qualified expenses. [^7]
For SSDI in 2025, the SGA limit is $1,620 per month, or $2,700 if you are blind. For SSI, the resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. For Oregon state disability, irregular income up to 10% of previous monthly salary is allowed. [^1][^2][^3][^4][^5][^6][^7]
If your income or health changes, you must report it to SSA and Oregon agencies. Not reporting can lead to overpayments and penalties. Report changes online, by phone, or in person. [^1][^2][^3][^4][^5][^6][^7]
Contact your local Social Security office or Oregon Disability Determination Services for help with your application. You can also get support from nonprofit organizations.
Yes, if your cancer meets SSA criteria or limits your ability to work. You may qualify for SSI, SSDI, or Oregon Paid Leave. Medical records are required to prove your condition.
For SSDI, you can earn up to $1,620 per month in 2025. For Oregon state disability, you can earn up to 10% of your previous monthly salary in irregular income.
Oregon Paid Leave provides up to 14 weeks of partial wage replacement for cancer treatment or recovery. Eligible employees can take up to 12 weeks for personal health reasons.
Yes, the Oregon ABLE Savings Program lets people with disabilities, including cancer, save up to $15,060 in 2025 without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
Yes, you must report changes to SSA and Oregon agencies to avoid overpayments and penalties. Report changes online, by phone, or in person.
Medicaid waivers help people with cancer get long-term care services at home or in the community. They can cover home health, respite care, and other supports.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
Apply for SSI or SSDI online at ssa.gov, by phone, or at a local office. Apply for Oregon Paid Leave online. Gather medical records and work history before applying.
You can appeal the decision. The SSA and Oregon agencies provide information on how to appeal and what evidence to submit.
Yes, public safety workers with cancer are considered disabled if they cannot do their previous job. They can earn up to 10% of their previous monthly salary in irregular income.
Yes, children with cancer may qualify for SSI if their condition meets SSA criteria. Medical records are required to prove the disability.
