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When mesothelioma puts victims out of work, they may be eligible for disability. While some private insurance plans include disability, the most common type of mesothelioma disability claims are made to the Social Security Administration. Specifically, mesothelioma is considered a disease that falls under “Compassionate Allowances.”
Compassionate allowances are paid to those who are eligible to file for Social Security Disability Insurance and have a condition that is always fatal or disabling. Because mesothelioma is one of the 88 conditions, there is an expedited process for receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). However, that doesn’t mean you don’t need to take steps to make sure you get disability payments.
Making a Mesothelioma Disability Claim with the SSA
After you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you will need to file a claim with the Social Security Administration (SSA) to receive disability payments. With that application, you will need to include your medical records to prove you have the disease.
Once everything has been submitted correctly, your application will be flagged for compassionate allowances, and you should start receiving benefits within a month. If your claim is not approved within a month for whatever reason, an experienced SSDI attorney can help you get the benefits you deserve.
Making a Mesothelioma Disability Claim with the VA
If you are a veteran and are diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be eligible to receive benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs. In fact, the VA has set aside funds specifically for those who developed mesothelioma from their time in the military. However, there are some criteria that must be met before you can receive benefits.
First, you must prove you have mesothelioma; medical records are sufficient enough. You must also prove mesothelioma developed due to asbestos exposure during your time in service. You should be able to do so through your service records.
Thirdly, you must be considered at least 10 percent disabled by the VA (mesothelioma is almost always considered 100 percent disabled). Finally, you must have left the military under any conditions other than dishonorable discharge.
Benefits will be paid on a monthly basis, and the amount is not affected by age, financial stability, or employment status. An experienced attorney can help you file the claim correctly to ensure full benefits are paid.
