Managing your finances during your cancer journey
In the whirlwind of a cancer diagnosis and treatment it can be difficult to think of everything. You may be having difficulty with your budget for the first time in your life. There are many different types of costs that can add up during diagnosis, treatment and recovery. These will vary depending on cancer type, stage and treatment options. You may have health-related expenses, such as medicines, equipment and specialist fees. There can also be extra costs for transport, accommodation, childcare or complementary therapies. At the same time, cancer may mean a loss of income if you or your partner/carer has to take time off work.
You may be unaware there is a huge scope of services on offer which could assist you.
The Queensland Cancer council has a Legal, Financial, Small Business and Workplace Referral Service that may be able to help if you or someone in your family has cancer, or is caring for someone with cancer and you need assistance with legal, financial, small business or workplace issues. The program may be able to connect you with professionals who can help you with:
- Preparing wills and power of attorney documents
- Early access to superannuation
- Insurance claims and disputes
- Credit and debt issues
- Employment law advice or managing workplace issues
- Handling disruption to your small business
Advice is provided by legal, financial and human resources professionals, who volunteer their time. The program is free for people who cannot afford to pay for it and is means tested.
Applying for assistance is as simple as contacting the Queensland Cancer Council on 13 11 20
Other income means:
- Centrelink benefits
- No interest loans
- Superannuation
- Super, insurance and terminal illness claims
- Insurance claims
- Property and other assets
- Compensation for work-related cancer