Financial and Insurance Matters

Learn about the different types of health insurance, laws that govern health insurance in the United States, and how to manage the costs of cancer treatment.

Cost of Cancer Care

Financial Hardship

Many people with cancer worry about being able to pay their bills while being treated for cancer. Learn why people with cancer might have financial problems and if anything can be done to keep that from happening. 

Things to Know About the Cost of Your Cancer Treatment

Cancer can be a costly illness. It can take a toll on your health, your emotions, your time, and your finances. Learn more about what to expect and questions to ask.

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Health Insurance Options

Types of Health Insurance Plans

Learn about different types of health insurance plans and coverage and what to consider when choosing a health insurance plan.

Other Types of Health Coverage

Other kinds of health coverage benefits might be used in addition to your primary insurance. These plans don’t usually cover your regular medical expenses, or you might have large out-of-pocket expenses.

Getting Health Insurance at Work

If your employer offers health insurance, you should check the different options for both you and your family members. Learn more here.

COBRA: Keeping Health Insurance After Leaving Your Job

This law gives workers who lose or leave their job the option to keep workplace health insurance for a while longer if they can’t get coverage in other ways. Learn more.

Government-funded Programs: When You Can't Get Health Insurance at Work

Government-funded health insurance programs provide coverage for people who can't get health insurance at work or for other reasons. Learn more here.

Health Insurance Scams

Health insurance scammers can take your money by tricking you about health care laws and sharing fake information. Learn how to spot and report such scams.

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Managing Your Health Insurance and Medical Bills

Patient Bill of Rights

The Patient Bill of Rights was designed to give patient protections in dealing with health insurance companies. Learn about these protections here.

Keeping Up with Health Insurance During Cancer Treatment

It is important to have health insurance coverage when you have cancer. Here are some important things to know.

Getting Medical Pre-approval or Prior Authorization

Health insurance companies use the prior authorization (pre-approval) process to decide if a medical drug or procedure is needed before it is done. Learn more.

If Your Health Insurance Claim Is Denied

If your health insurance claim is denied, you can appeal the decision – even for things that might be in your health plan’s contract. Learn more.

If You Have Problems Paying a Medical Bill

Sometimes during a serious illness, people may find it hard to pay their medical bills on time. Learn what steps you can take if you are in this situation.

Programs and Resources to Help With Cancer-related Expenses

Other than usual medical bills, there are many other expenses related to cancer treatment. Find programs and resources that can help.

Supplemental Security Income for People with Cancer

People with cancer might be eligible for SSI which pays a monthly benefit to certain adults and children who have limited income and resources. Learn more here.

Social Security Disability Insurance for People with Cancer

Learn how cancer patients may qualify for social security disability insurance which is a benefit earned by people who have worked & paid into Social Security.

Help Paying for Prescription Medicines

If you need help paying for prescription drugs, the prescription assistance programs listed here can help you buy them at discounted prices. Learn more.

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Health Insurance Laws

The Affordable Care Act: How It Helps People With Cancer and Their Families

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) helps patients and their families have access to affordable and understandable . health care. Learn more here about the options.

Americans With Disabilities Act: Information for People Facing Cancer

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) helps protect the civil rights of people with disabilities, which can include people with cancer. Learn more here.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) of 1993 allows certain employees to take reasonable unpaid leave for certain family and medical reasons. Learn more.

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