Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do I apply?
    Contact us at 800-813-HOPE (4673) to connect with a CancerCare social worker and undergo a brief interview. Then, you will receive a link to access the financial portal for registration. Here you can upload your application and check the status of your application.
  • What do I need to apply for financial assistance?
    You would need to provide a completed copy of the financial assistance application, proof of income and a signed medical form.
  • What are the eligibility criteria to apply?
    1. Have a confirmed cancer diagnosis from an oncology healthcare provider.
    2. Be actively undergoing treatment for your cancer.
    3. Reside in the U.S. or Puerto Rico.
    4. Meet our eligibility guidelines based on the Federal Poverty Limit.
  • How often can I apply?
    Patients can reapply every 12-24 calendar month if they are in active treatment for a cancer diagnosis and depending on grants requirements.
  • What can I get help with?
    We offer limited financial assistance for cancer-related costs such as transportation, Homecare and childcare, General household bills, food and other categories specific to location and diagnosis. We also have a special program to help you with the costs of your cat or dog through our Pet Assistance and Wellness program.
  • How long after submitting my application should I hear back from you?
    Once we receive your completed application, please allow 48 to 72 hours (about 3 business days) for processing. All future communications will be sent through the portal. You can conveniently check the status of your application—whether it has been received, processed, approved, or denied—via the portal. Additionally, if you have any questions or need further assistance, you can communicate with the financial assistance unit directly through the messaging feature on the portal.
  • What is the acceptable proof of income?
    1. The first two pages of signed income tax return (you may blacken out your social security number)
    2. If you do not file a tax return, you may submit a copy of your most recent pay stub, unemployment check, or SSI, SSD, or public assistance benefit notification
    3. If you do not have any income, provide a letter of support from friend or family member
  • Who would count as a household member to provide income proof?
    All members of your household who receive some type of income
  • How can I check the status of my application?
    By logging into the portal with your credentials, calling the check status line (866-644-1787) or by email at fin-app@cancercare.org.
  • How can I submit my financial application and proof of income?
    By logging into the portal with your credentials, by email at fin-app@cancercare.org or fax at 212-712-8495
  • When I am eligible to re-apply will a new application be sent to me automatically?
    No, you will have to contact CancerCare by calling 800-813-HOPE (4673) and speak with a CancerCare social worker to complete a brief interview.
  • Will I receive a check every week or every month?
    No, it’s a one-time check.
  • I checked off transportation help on my application but I need assistance with home care, can I use my grant towards home care?
    Yes, you may use your grant towards transportation, home care, and child care, food & general household bills.
  • Does your grant cover rental assistance?
    No, it doesn’t cover rental assistance but you may use the grant toward general household bills/ homecare.
  • I don’t have a bank account can the check be issued in my caregiver’s name?
    Yes, as long as you provided consent the check can be made in your caregiver’s name.
  • I will not be seeing my doctor for another month; can I still submit my application?
    Yes, you may submit your application. However, it’s recommended to submit your application as soon as possible as the grant are awarded on a first come first service basis. You may submit your application within the first six months of your assessment.
  • Can the check be deposited into my back account?
    No, CancerCare does not do direct deposit, checks can only be mailed out
  • How can I submit the receipts?
    By logging into the portal with your credentials, by email at fin-app@cancercare.org or fax at 212-712-8495.
  • Can I get reimbursed for doctor’s office visits?
    No, our reimbursement grant does not cover doctor’s office visits

PEX Questions

  • What can I use my PEX card towards?
    Your PEX card can be used towards the purchase of gasoline, public transportation, parking, tolls, and car share programs (Uber, Lyft).
  • I have not received my PEX card, can a new one be sent to me?
    Yes, a new card can be ordered, there is a $5 fee deducted from the balance.
  • I lost my card and I have a balance remaining on my card, will I lose out on my remaining fund?
    No, the original card will be closed and a new card will be mailed with a $5 fee deducted from the balance.
  • I was approved yesterday and can my PEX card be expedited?
    No, once the cards is shipped they are sent via 1st class mail.
  • Can I use my PEX card to pay for car repair?
    No, the card cannot be used for car repairs
  • Can I be reimbursed for my diabetes medication?
    No, the grant only covers transportation costs.
  • How do I activate my PEX card?
    Call 866-644-1787 to speak to a CancerCare financial specialist
  • Can I use my PEX card to pay for food?
    Call 866-644-1787 to speak to a CancerCare financial specialist for further clarification as some programs cover food.
  • How do I set up a Pin for my PEX card?
    By calling 866-644-1787 to speak to a CancerCare financial specialist.