Conditions That Qualify for Disability

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects focus, impulse control, and behavior. SSA evaluates how severely your ADHD symptoms limit your ability to think, remember, complete tasks, and interact with others at work.

Adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease) is a condition where your adrenal glands don't produce enough hormones. SSA no longer has a dedicated listing for it, but evaluates how hormone deficiency affects your body systems, stamina, and ability to sustain work.

Amputation refers to the loss of a limb or part of a limb due to any cause, including injury, disease, or surgery. SSA evaluates amputation claims under Blue Book Listing 1.20, which covers amputations resulting from any cause. To qualify, your medical records must document the amputation according to one of four specific criteria (A, B, C, or D) outlined in the listing. SSA focuses on whether the amputation significantly limits your ability to perform basic work-related activities.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurological disease that affects the nerve cells controlling muscle movement, leading to muscle weakness, loss of function, and eventually paralysis. SSA evaluates ALS disability claims under Blue Book Listing 11.10, which covers the neurological system. Because ALS is a serious and progressive condition, SSA requires that the diagnosis be established through both clinical findings — such as a neurological examination — and laboratory findings, in line with the standards described in section 11.00O of the Blue Book.

Anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD) are mental health conditions that can severely limit a person's ability to work and carry out daily activities. SSA evaluates these conditions by looking at your documented diagnosis alongside how significantly your symptoms affect your ability to function in daily life and at work.

An aortic aneurysm is an abnormal bulging or widening of the aorta — the body's main artery — or one of its major branches. It can be caused by a range of conditions, including atherosclerosis, Marfan syndrome, or trauma. SSA evaluates aortic aneurysm claims under Blue Book Listing 4.10, which focuses on whether imaging confirms the aneurysm and whether dissection (a tear in the artery wall) is not controlled despite following prescribed treatment.

Arthritis and joint dysfunction refer to conditions that damage or limit the normal movement of major joints in the arms or legs. SSA evaluates these conditions by looking at imaging results, physical examination findings, and the functional impact the joint problems have on your ability to move and get around.

Asthma is a chronic lung condition that causes airway inflammation, making it difficult to breathe. SSA evaluates asthma claims by looking at how often you have attacks despite following treatment, whether you have been hospitalized, and how your breathing test results compare to specific thresholds. Because asthma severity can vary greatly from person to person, SSA looks closely at your medical records to understand how your asthma affects your ability to function on a regular, ongoing basis.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and processes the world around them. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates ASD claims under Blue Book Listing 12.10, which requires meeting both a set of medical criteria (Part A) and a set of functional criteria (Part B). SSA reviews medical records, evaluations, and real-world functional limitations to determine whether the condition is severe enough to qualify for disability benefits.

Back pain and spinal disorders cover a wide range of conditions that affect the bones, nerves, and structures of the spine. When these conditions compress or damage nerve roots or the cauda equina — the bundle of nerves at the base of the spine — they can cause severe, lasting limitations. SSA evaluates spinal disorder claims primarily under two Blue Book listings: Listing 1.15, which covers disorders of the skeletal spine that compromise a nerve root, and Listing 1.16, which covers lumbar spinal stenosis that compromises the cauda equina. Both listings require documented medical evidence meeting specific criteria labeled A, B, C, and D.

Benign brain tumors are non-cancerous growths in the brain that can still cause significant neurological symptoms. SSA evaluates how the tumor affects your ability to move, think, communicate, and function day to day.

Blood clotting disorders are conditions that affect how your blood forms clots — either clotting too easily (thrombosis) or not enough (bleeding disorders like hemophilia). SSA evaluates these conditions under Listing 7.08, which focuses on serious complications that repeatedly require hospital-level care. To meet SSA's criteria, your medical records must show a pattern of severe complications that result in multiple qualifying hospitalizations within a defined time period.

Bone marrow failure refers to a group of conditions where the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy blood cells. This category includes myelodysplastic syndromes, aplastic anemia, granulocytopenia, and myelofibrosis. SSA evaluates these conditions under Blue Book Listing 7.10, looking at how severely the disorder affects your body's ability to function. Because bone marrow failure can impact red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, SSA considers a range of complications and symptoms when reviewing your claim.

A bone marrow or stem cell transplant is a major medical procedure used to treat serious blood disorders. SSA automatically considers you disabled for at least 12 months from your transplant date, then reviews any lasting health problems after that period.

Brain and nervous system cancer refers to malignant tumors that originate in or spread to the brain, spinal cord, or other parts of the nervous system. SSA evaluates these cancers under Blue Book Listing 13.13, which covers primary cancers of the nervous system. When reviewing your claim, SSA follows specific guidance outlined in section 13.00K6 of the Blue Book to determine whether your condition meets the criteria for disability benefits.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women, though it can affect anyone. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates breast cancer disability claims under Blue Book Listing 13.10, which covers breast cancer (excluding sarcomas, which are evaluated separately under Listing 13.04). SSA reviews the medical severity of your diagnosis, treatment history, and how the condition affects your ability to work. The specific evaluation criteria are guided by SSA's general cancer evaluation rules outlined in Section 13.00K4.

Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung condition where the airways are permanently damaged and widened, making it hard to clear mucus and breathe. SSA evaluates it based on how often your condition flares up and lands you in the hospital.

Burns are injuries that damage the skin and underlying tissue, and in serious cases they can cause lasting physical limitations even after medical treatment has ended. SSA evaluates burn-related disability under Blue Book Listing 8.08, which focuses on burns that have finished active surgical treatment — or have reached the maximum benefit surgical treatment can provide — and have left behind chronic skin lesions or contractures. To qualify, those lasting effects must cause chronic pain or other physical limitations that significantly affect your ability to function.

Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle that weakens the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. SSA does not have a dedicated listing for cardiomyopathy, but evaluates it under heart failure guidelines by looking at how the condition affects your stamina, daily function, and ability to work.

Carpal tunnel syndrome causes nerve compression in the wrist that can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the hands. SSA does not have a dedicated listing for this condition, but evaluates it through peripheral neuropathy criteria and how it limits your ability to perform work tasks.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten that damages the small intestine. SSA does not have a dedicated listing for celiac disease, so claims are evaluated based on how intestinal damage leads to serious complications like weight loss or malnutrition despite a gluten-free diet.

Cerebral palsy is a group of neurological disorders that affect movement, muscle control, and coordination, typically caused by brain damage that occurs before, during, or shortly after birth. SSA evaluates cerebral palsy under Blue Book Listing 11.07, which covers neurological disorders. To be considered disabled under this listing, your condition must be characterized by specific criteria labeled A, B, or C in the listing — meaning SSA looks at the particular ways your cerebral palsy affects your physical and functional abilities.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex, long-term illness causing severe fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and other debilitating symptoms. SSA does not have a dedicated Blue Book listing for ME/CFS, but evaluates claims under a special ruling that examines how your symptoms affect your ability to function and work.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and fluid from the blood. SSA evaluates CKD under Blue Book Listings 6.03, 6.04, and 6.05, which cover people who require ongoing dialysis, have undergone a kidney transplant, or have measurable impairment of kidney function. SSA looks at your treatment history, lab results, and how your kidney condition affects your ability to work.

Chronic liver disease (CLD) is a long-term condition in which the liver becomes progressively damaged, impairing its ability to filter toxins, produce proteins, and support digestion. SSA evaluates CLD under Blue Book Listing 5.05, looking at specific complications and functional consequences of the disease. If you have had a liver transplant, SSA automatically considers you disabled for one year from the transplant date under Listing 5.09, after which any remaining impairments are evaluated separately.

Chronic pain syndrome is a condition where persistent, widespread pain significantly limits daily functioning and work ability. SSA does not have a dedicated Blue Book listing for it, but evaluates these claims by examining how your pain affects what you can and cannot do.

Chronic pancreatitis is long-term inflammation of the pancreas that can cause severe pain, malnutrition, and weight loss. SSA does not have a dedicated listing for this condition, so claims are evaluated based on how its complications — such as significant weight loss or nutritional deficiency — affect your ability to work.

Chronic skin conditions are long-lasting conditions affecting the skin or mucous membranes that significantly limit a person's ability to function. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates these conditions under Blue Book Listing 8.09, which covers a broad range of persistent skin and mucous membrane disorders. SSA reviews medical evidence to determine whether your condition meets the severity requirements outlined in the listing, focusing on how the condition affects your daily functioning and ability to work.

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is a condition where the veins in your legs struggle to send blood back to your heart, causing swelling, skin changes, and ulcers. SSA evaluates CVI based on evidence of deep vein damage or blockage alongside specific complications in a lower extremity.

Colon and rectal cancer (also called colorectal cancer) refers to cancers that develop in the large intestine, which includes everything from the ileocecal valve down to and including the anal canal. The Social Security Administration evaluates these cancers under Blue Book Listing 13.18. SSA reviews your medical records to determine whether your condition meets the specific criteria outlined in that listing, considering factors such as the nature, extent, and progression of the cancer.

CRPS is a chronic pain condition that causes intense burning pain, swelling, and changes in skin color or temperature, usually in a limb. SSA does not have a dedicated listing for CRPS but evaluates it through related nerve damage criteria, focusing on how much the condition limits your ability to use your arms, hands, or legs and keep a job.

Complications of chronic kidney disease (CKD) refer to serious medical events that arise as a result of long-term kidney damage. SSA evaluates disability claims for this condition under Blue Book Listing 6.09, focusing on how often these complications require emergency or hospital-level care. Rather than measuring kidney function test results alone, SSA looks at whether your condition has caused repeated, serious hospitalizations over a 12-month period — making it difficult for you to maintain regular work and daily life.

Congenital heart disease is a heart defect present from birth that can affect how your heart pumps blood. SSA evaluates it based on documented imaging or catheterization results and the symptoms and complications your records show.

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and other chronic respiratory diseases make it hard to breathe, limiting your ability to work and perform daily activities. SSA evaluates these conditions under Blue Book Listing 3.02, which covers chronic respiratory disorders due to any cause — except cystic fibrosis, which has its own separate listing. To qualify, your medical records must show that your condition meets one of four sets of criteria (A, B, C, or D) outlined in Listing 3.02. SSA relies heavily on objective medical test results, so thorough documentation from your treating doctors is essential.

Coronary artery disease (CAD) occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle. SSA evaluates CAD under Blue Book Listing 4.04 as ischemic heart disease. To qualify, your records must show symptoms caused by reduced blood flow to the heart (myocardial ischemia) while you are following a prescribed treatment plan. SSA looks at specific clinical findings and test results to determine whether your condition meets the listing requirements.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition that causes thick mucus to build up in the lungs, digestive system, and other organs, leading to serious breathing problems and frequent infections. SSA evaluates CF disability claims under Blue Book Listing 3.04, which requires that CF be documented according to SSA's specific criteria and that the condition meets one of several defined severity standards (labeled A through G). Because CF affects breathing and overall lung function, SSA looks closely at medical records that show how severely the disease limits your ability to function.

Degenerative disc disease is a spinal condition that SSA evaluates under its general spinal disorders guidelines — there is no dedicated listing for it. SSA focuses on whether nerve compression or spinal narrowing limits your ability to work, walk, or perform physical tasks.

Dementia and neurocognitive disorders are conditions that cause a significant decline in one or more areas of mental functioning, such as memory, attention, language, or the ability to make decisions. SSA evaluates these conditions primarily under Blue Book Listing 12.02 (Neurocognitive Disorders). To qualify, your medical records must satisfy the listing's combined criteria — either parts A and B, or parts A and C — which assess both the documented medical findings and the functional impact the condition has on your daily life.

Depression and bipolar disorder are serious mood disorders that can make it very difficult to work or carry out daily activities. SSA evaluates these conditions under Blue Book Listing 12.04, which covers depressive, bipolar, and related disorders. To qualify, your medical records must satisfy specific criteria sets outlined in the listing — either a combination of criteria A and B, or criteria A and C — demonstrating that your symptoms and their impact on your functioning are severe enough to prevent you from maintaining substantial gainful employment.

SSA no longer has a dedicated listing for diabetes, but Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes can still qualify for disability benefits when serious complications — such as kidney disease, nerve damage, or vision loss — are severe enough to prevent you from working.

Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. SSA evaluates disability claims for Down syndrome under Listing 10.06 in the "Multiple Body Systems" category of the Blue Book. Non-mosaic Down syndrome — which includes both chromosome 21 trisomy and chromosome 21 translocation — is specifically listed, meaning SSA will consider whether your medical records document the diagnosis according to the criteria in that listing.

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions — such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder — that significantly affect a person's relationship with food, body image, and overall health. SSA evaluates eating disorder claims under Blue Book Listing 12.13, which requires meeting both a set of medical criteria (Part A) and a set of functional limitation criteria (Part B). Your records must show both that you have a diagnosed eating disorder and that it significantly limits your ability to function in daily life.

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of connective tissue disorders causing joint hypermobility, chronic pain, and multi-system complications. SSA does not have a dedicated listing for EDS, so claims are evaluated based on how your specific symptoms limit your ability to work across affected body systems.

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing severe pelvic pain, fatigue, and other complications. SSA does not have a dedicated listing for endometriosis, but evaluates how your symptoms limit your ability to sustain work activity.

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that causes recurring seizures due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain. SSA evaluates epilepsy claims under Blue Book Listing 11.02, which focuses on whether your seizures are frequent and severe enough to prevent you from working. To qualify, your condition must be documented by a detailed description of a typical seizure and meet specific criteria related to seizure type and frequency.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition causing widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. SSA does not have a dedicated Blue Book listing for fibromyalgia, but evaluates claims based on how your symptoms affect your ability to function and work.

Fractures and bone injuries that fail to heal properly, or that occur because of an underlying disease weakening the bones, can qualify for Social Security disability benefits. SSA evaluates these claims under the musculoskeletal listings, focusing on whether the fracture is pathologic (caused by a disease process), non-healing, or complex — and whether it significantly limits your ability to function. Simply breaking a bone is not enough on its own; SSA looks at specific medical documentation showing the fracture's nature, location, and impact on your daily functioning.

Gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhaging is serious internal bleeding that occurs in the digestive tract — including the esophagus, stomach, or intestines — and can result from many different underlying causes. SSA evaluates GI hemorrhaging under Blue Book Listing 5.02, which focuses on how frequently and severely someone has required blood transfusions due to bleeding episodes. If your condition has led to multiple major transfusions within a specific time period, SSA may consider you disabled for a defined period while also looking at any lasting effects of your condition afterward.

Gastroparesis is a condition where the stomach empties too slowly, causing nausea, vomiting, and malnutrition. SSA has no dedicated listing for gastroparesis, so claims are evaluated based on how the condition affects your weight, nutrition, and ability to work.

Hearing loss and deafness refer to a partial or total inability to hear that significantly limits a person's ability to function. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates hearing loss under two separate Blue Book listings depending on whether the person has or has not received a cochlear implant. Listing 2.10 covers hearing loss that has not been treated with cochlear implantation, while Listing 2.11 applies to those who have received a cochlear implant. SSA uses audiological test results and medical records to determine whether your level of hearing loss meets the criteria under the appropriate listing.

Heart failure is a condition where the heart can no longer pump blood effectively enough to meet the body's needs. SSA evaluates chronic heart failure under Blue Book Listing 4.02, which requires that you are on a regimen of prescribed treatment and still experience significant symptoms and signs of heart failure. To meet the listing, your medical records must satisfy the requirements of both Part A (medical documentation of the condition) and Part B (evidence of functional limitations), as described in SSA's cardiovascular guidelines.

A heart transplant is a major surgical procedure in which a diseased or failing heart is replaced with a healthy donor heart. SSA evaluates heart transplant recipients under Blue Book Listing 4.09, which automatically considers you disabled for one full year following the date of your transplant surgery. After that one-year period, SSA will reassess your condition by evaluating any remaining impairments under the appropriate Blue Book listing that best matches your ongoing health limitations.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, and AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the most advanced stage of HIV infection. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates HIV/AIDS claims under Blue Book Listing 14.11, which covers HIV infection as an immune system disorder. To be considered disabled under this listing, your medical records must include proper documentation of your HIV diagnosis as described in SSA's guidelines, along with at least one additional qualifying condition or complication specified in the listing criteria.

Immune deficiency disorders (excluding HIV infection) are conditions where the immune system does not work properly, leaving the body unable to fight off infections and illnesses effectively. SSA evaluates these disorders under Listing 14.07 of the Blue Book, which falls under the immune system category. To qualify for disability benefits, your condition must meet the specific criteria described under section 14.00E of SSA's guidelines, which outlines how immune deficiency disorders are assessed based on their severity and impact on your ability to function.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) — which includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis — is a chronic condition involving ongoing inflammation of the digestive tract. SSA evaluates IBD claims under Blue Book Listing 5.06, which requires that the condition be documented through medical tests such as endoscopy, biopsy, imaging, or surgical findings. To meet SSA's criteria, your records must show not only a confirmed IBD diagnosis but also that your condition meets one of several specific sets of functional or clinical requirements laid out in the listing.

Intellectual disability (also called intellectual disorder) refers to significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior that begin during the developmental period. SSA evaluates intellectual disability claims under Blue Book Listing 12.05, which covers intellectual disorder. To qualify, your medical records and history must show that your condition meets specific criteria outlined under either Paragraph A or Paragraph B of that listing. SSA looks at both your cognitive abilities and how well you can function in everyday life.

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) and pulmonary fibrosis cause progressive lung scarring that makes breathing increasingly difficult. SSA does not have a dedicated listing for these conditions but evaluates them under its chronic respiratory disorders framework, looking closely at your breathing test results, oxygen levels, and functional limitations.

Intestinal failure is a serious condition in which the digestive system can no longer absorb enough nutrients and fluids to sustain life. SSA evaluates intestinal failure under Blue Book Listing 5.07, which focuses on whether the condition has forced you to depend on daily nutrition delivered directly into your bloodstream through a central venous catheter — a process called parenteral nutrition. To meet the listing, SSA requires that this dependence has lasted, or is expected to last, for at least 12 months and that it stems from short bowel syndrome, a chronic motility disorder, or extensive small bowel mucosal disease.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic digestive condition causing abdominal pain, cramping, and unpredictable diarrhea or constipation. SSA has no dedicated listing for IBS, so claims are evaluated based on how severely your symptoms limit your ability to work consistently.

Joint replacement surgery — also called reconstructive surgery or surgical arthrodesis — involves rebuilding or fusing a major weight-bearing joint, such as a hip or knee. SSA evaluates disability claims for this condition under Blue Book Listing 1.17, which applies specifically to reconstructive surgery or surgical arthrodesis of a major weight-bearing joint. To be considered disabled under this listing, your medical records must satisfy three documented criteria (labeled A, B, and C in the listing) that SSA reviewers will examine closely.

Kidney cancer refers to carcinoma of the kidneys, adrenal glands, or ureters. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates kidney cancer claims under Blue Book Listing 13.21, which covers cancers affecting these specific structures of the urinary and endocrine system. SSA reviews your medical records to determine whether your diagnosis meets the criteria outlined in this listing. Meeting the listing does not guarantee approval, but providing thorough, well-documented medical evidence is essential to supporting your claim.

Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow that affects the body's ability to produce healthy blood cells. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates leukemia claims under Blue Book Listing 13.06. SSA's evaluation of leukemia takes into account the specific guidance outlined in its cancer listings, referenced under section 13.00K2. Because leukemia can vary widely in type and progression, SSA reviews your medical records carefully to determine whether your condition meets the listing requirements.

Liver and gallbladder cancer refers to cancers originating in the liver, gallbladder, or bile ducts. SSA evaluates disability claims for this condition under Blue Book Listing 13.19, which covers primary cancers of these organs. Because this listing is specifically designed for these cancer types, SSA reviews your medical records to confirm a diagnosis of cancer of the liver, gallbladder, or bile ducts and assesses how the condition and its treatment affect your ability to work.

Long COVID (Post-COVID Condition) causes lasting symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and breathing problems that can prevent people from working. Because SSA has no dedicated listing for long COVID, claims are evaluated based on how your symptoms affect multiple body systems and your overall ability to sustain work activity.

Loss of speech is a condition in which a person is unable to communicate verbally in a way that can be heard, understood, or sustained. SSA evaluates this condition under Blue Book Listing 2.09, which covers loss of speech from any medical cause. To meet this listing, your records must show that you cannot produce — by any means — speech that is audible, comprehensible, or consistent enough to be functional. The cause of the speech loss does not matter; what SSA focuses on is whether usable speech is possible at all.

Lung cancer is a condition in which malignant (cancerous) cells form in the tissues of the lungs. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates lung cancer claims under Listing 13.14 of the Blue Book, which falls under the category of cancers affecting the lungs. SSA reviews your medical records and treatment history to determine whether your condition meets the severity required for disability benefits. The evaluation focuses on the nature and extent of your lung cancer as documented by your treating physicians and diagnostic tests.

A lung transplant is recognized by SSA as a qualifying disability condition. If you've had a lung transplant, SSA will consider you disabled for a specific period after surgery and will then evaluate any remaining health limitations.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), commonly called lupus, is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue throughout the body. It can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, and blood cells, often causing flares of symptoms followed by periods of remission. SSA evaluates lupus under Blue Book Listing 14.02, looking at how the disease and its symptoms limit your ability to function in work-related activities. Because lupus affects so many body systems, SSA considers the full picture of your medical history and documented functional limitations.

Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness that can cause lasting joint pain, nerve damage, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. SSA does not have a dedicated listing for Lyme disease, but evaluates claims based on how your symptoms affect your joints, nervous system, and ability to sustain work.

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that starts in the lymphatic system, which includes lymph nodes, the spleen, and other tissues that help your body fight infection. SSA evaluates lymphoma disability claims under Blue Book Listing 13.05, which covers most types of lymphoma — including mycosis fungoides, a rare form that affects the skin — but excludes T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma, which is evaluated separately under Listing 13.06. SSA reviews the specific type, severity, and treatment history of your lymphoma to determine whether your condition meets the listing criteria.

Melanoma is a serious form of cancer that can develop in the skin, eyes (ocular), or mucous membranes (mucosal). SSA evaluates melanoma disability claims under Blue Book Listing 13.29, which covers malignant melanoma across all three of these sites. To qualify for disability benefits, your medical records must show that your melanoma meets one of three specific sets of criteria outlined in the listing. The severity and extent of your diagnosis, as documented by your treating physicians, are central to SSA's evaluation.

Meniere's Disease and other vestibular disorders are conditions affecting the inner ear that can cause recurring episodes of severe dizziness or balance problems, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and gradual hearing loss. SSA evaluates these conditions under Blue Book Listing 2.07, which focuses on disturbances of labyrinthine-vestibular function. To be considered disabling under this listing, your medical records must document a specific combination of ongoing symptoms that significantly impact your ability to function.

Migraines and chronic headaches do not have a dedicated SSA listing, but SSA evaluates how often your attacks occur, how long they last, and whether their combined effect on your ability to work and function is severe enough to qualify for disability benefits.

Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD) is an autoimmune disorder that shares features of lupus, scleroderma, and other connective tissue diseases. SSA evaluates how severely your symptoms — such as joint pain, organ involvement, and fatigue — limit your ability to function and work.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease of the central nervous system in which the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, disrupting communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Symptoms can include problems with movement, balance, vision, and thinking. SSA evaluates MS disability claims under Blue Book Listing 11.09, looking at whether your condition meets specific criteria related to physical or neurological functioning. Because MS symptoms can fluctuate, thorough and consistent medical documentation is especially important when filing a claim.

Muscular dystrophy is a group of inherited diseases that cause progressive muscle weakness and loss of muscle mass over time. SSA evaluates muscular dystrophy under Blue Book Listing 11.13, which falls under neurological disorders. To qualify, your condition must be characterized by specific criteria labeled A or B in the listing. SSA reviews your medical records, functional limitations, and how your symptoms affect your ability to work when determining eligibility for disability benefits.

Myasthenia gravis is a chronic neuromuscular disease that causes weakness in the skeletal muscles — the muscles your body uses for movement, breathing, and swallowing. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates myasthenia gravis under Blue Book Listing 11.12. To be considered disabled under this listing, SSA looks at whether your symptoms persist despite following your prescribed treatment for at least 3 months. Your medical records need to show that the condition is ongoing and not adequately controlled even when you are complying with your doctor's recommended treatment plan.

Narcolepsy is a neurological condition causing uncontrollable sleep attacks, cataplexy, and daytime impairment. SSA has no dedicated listing for narcolepsy, so it evaluates claims based on how often your episodes occur, how disabling they are, and how they affect your ability to function safely at work.

Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder in which the kidneys release too much protein into the urine, leading to symptoms such as severe swelling, low protein levels in the blood, and high cholesterol. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates nephrotic syndrome under Listing 6.06 in its Blue Book. To be considered for disability benefits, your medical records must show that your condition meets specific criteria that SSA outlines under that listing. SSA reviews clinical findings, laboratory results, and other documentation to determine whether your nephrotic syndrome is severe enough to qualify.

Huntington's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders affecting the central nervous system can qualify for Social Security disability benefits when the condition causes significant problems with movement, thinking, or daily functioning that SSA can verify through medical records.

Obesity no longer has its own dedicated SSA listing, but it can still support a disability claim. SSA evaluates how excess weight impacts your joints, lungs, heart, and other body systems — alone or alongside other conditions — to determine whether you can work.

Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones and increases fracture risk. SSA does not have a dedicated disability listing for osteoporosis, but evaluates it based on resulting fractures, skeletal changes, and how severely your bone loss limits your ability to walk, lift, or carry.

Pancreatic cancer is a serious illness in which malignant cells form in the tissues of the pancreas. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates pancreatic cancer under Blue Book Listing 13.20, which covers cancers of the pancreas. Because pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed at an advanced stage and can significantly limit a person's ability to work, SSA has a dedicated listing for it. Your medical records documenting the diagnosis, extent of the disease, and treatment history are central to how SSA reviews your claim.

Parkinson's Disease is a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, causing symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and problems with balance and coordination. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates Parkinson's Disease under Blue Book Listing 11.06, which covers "Parkinsonian syndrome." To be considered for disability benefits under this listing, SSA looks at whether your symptoms persist despite following your prescribed treatment for at least 3 consecutive months. Because Parkinson's affects each person differently, the strength of your medical documentation plays a critical role in how SSA assesses your claim.

Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) is a circulatory condition in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs, most commonly the legs. This reduced blood flow can cause pain, cramping, or weakness during physical activity — a symptom known as intermittent claudication. SSA evaluates PAD under Blue Book Listing 4.12, looking for evidence of the disease confirmed by medically acceptable imaging and the presence of intermittent claudication, along with additional specific findings outlined in the listing criteria.

Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, which can cause weakness, numbness, pain, and coordination problems in the hands, feet, and other parts of the body. SSA evaluates peripheral neuropathy under Blue Book Listing 11.14, which covers neurological disorders affecting movement and physical function. To qualify, your condition must meet specific criteria — labeled A or B — that describe the severity of your functional limitations as documented by medical evidence.

Personality disorders are long-term patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that cause serious problems in daily life and relationships. SSA evaluates how severely your symptoms limit your ability to work, interact with others, manage yourself, and concentrate.

Plantar fasciitis is a painful foot condition caused by inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot. SSA does not have a dedicated listing for it, but evaluates how your foot pain limits walking and standing when deciding if you qualify for disability benefits.

Polymyositis and dermatomyositis are inflammatory diseases that cause muscle weakness, pain, and in dermatomyositis, skin rashes. SSA evaluates how severely these conditions affect your ability to move, breathe, swallow, and perform daily activities when determining disability eligibility.

POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and dysautonomia are conditions affecting the autonomic nervous system, causing rapid heart rate, dizziness, fainting, and extreme fatigue. SSA has no dedicated listing for these conditions but evaluates them by examining how your symptoms affect your heart, nervous system, and ability to sustain work.

Prostate cancer is a condition in which malignant (cancerous) cells form in the tissues of the prostate gland. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates prostate cancer disability claims under Blue Book Listing 13.24, which covers carcinoma of the prostate gland. SSA reviews your medical records to determine whether your condition meets the listing criteria. Because every case is different, the strength of your documentation plays a major role in how SSA assesses your claim.

Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory condition affecting the joints and skin that SSA evaluates under its inflammatory arthritis guidelines. SSA does not have a dedicated listing for psoriatic arthritis, but your claim can still be approved based on how severely your joint inflammation, damage, and functional limitations affect your ability to work.

PTSD and other trauma-related disorders are mental health conditions that develop after a person experiences or witnesses a deeply distressing event. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates these conditions under Blue Book Listing 12.15, which covers trauma- and stressor-related disorders. To qualify for disability benefits, your medical records must satisfy specific criteria that demonstrate how severely your condition limits your ability to function in daily life and work. SSA reviews documentation from mental health professionals and other medical sources to make this determination.

Pulmonary hypertension is a serious condition in which the blood pressure inside the arteries of the lungs is abnormally high, putting strain on the heart and lungs. SSA evaluates chronic pulmonary hypertension under Blue Book Listing 3.09, which covers cases caused by any underlying medical reason. To meet this listing, your medical records must show that your condition is chronic and confirmed by a specific type of heart procedure called cardiac catheterization, which directly measures the pressure in your pulmonary arteries.

Recurrent arrhythmias are heart rhythm problems that cause your heart to beat too fast, too slow, or irregularly. For disability purposes, SSA evaluates whether your arrhythmia — not caused by a treatable or reversible issue like a medication problem or electrolyte imbalance — leads to repeated episodes of fainting or near-fainting that cannot be controlled even with prescribed treatment. SSA requires that these episodes be captured and confirmed through specific heart-monitoring tests at the same time the fainting or near-fainting actually occurs.

Respiratory failure is a serious condition in which your lungs can no longer supply enough oxygen to your body or remove carbon dioxide effectively, requiring mechanical breathing support. SSA evaluates respiratory failure claims under Blue Book Listing 3.14, which focuses on how often you have needed ventilator support and for how long. This listing applies to respiratory failure caused by any chronic respiratory disorder, with the exception of cystic fibrosis, which is evaluated under a separate listing.

Rheumatoid arthritis and other forms of inflammatory arthritis are conditions where the immune system attacks the joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and sometimes damage to other organs. SSA evaluates these conditions under Blue Book Listing 14.09 (Inflammatory Arthritis), which falls under the immune system disorders category. To qualify, your medical records must show that your condition meets the specific clinical and functional requirements described under SSA's guidelines for inflammatory arthritis (14.00D6). SSA looks at how the disease affects your joints, mobility, and overall ability to function in daily life and work.

Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders are serious mental health conditions that can severely affect a person's ability to think clearly, manage emotions, and function in daily life or at work. SSA evaluates these conditions under Blue Book Listing 12.03, which covers schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders. To qualify, your medical records must satisfy either a combination of criteria sets A and B, or criteria sets A and C, as defined in the listing. SSA will review your symptoms, how long they have lasted, and how much they limit your ability to function.

Scleroderma, also called systemic sclerosis, is an autoimmune disease that causes the body's connective tissue to harden and tighten. It can affect the skin, blood vessels, and internal organs. SSA evaluates scleroderma claims under Blue Book Listing 14.04, which looks at how the disease affects your body systems and whether your symptoms meet the specific functional and clinical criteria described in SSA's guidelines for systemic sclerosis.

Sickle cell disease and other hemolytic anemias are blood disorders where red blood cells break down faster than the body can replace them, causing serious complications throughout the body. SSA evaluates these conditions under Blue Book Listing 7.05, which covers hemolytic anemias — including sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and their variants. To qualify for disability benefits, your medical records must document how your condition meets the specific clinical criteria outlined in Listing 7.05.

Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks moisture-producing glands, most commonly causing dry eyes and dry mouth, but it can also affect other organs and body systems. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates Sjögren's syndrome under Listing 14.10 of the Blue Book, which falls under the immune system disorders category. SSA reviews medical evidence to determine whether your symptoms and their impact on your functioning meet the specific criteria outlined under that listing. Because Sjögren's syndrome can vary widely in severity, the strength and completeness of your medical documentation plays a key role in how SSA assesses your claim.

Sleep apnea is a breathing disorder that causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. SSA does not have a dedicated listing for sleep apnea, but evaluates it based on how it affects your breathing, oxygen levels, and ability to function during the day.

Soft tissue injuries involve damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments, or other non-bone tissue in the body. SSA evaluates these injuries under Blue Book Listing 1.21, which focuses specifically on soft tissue injuries or abnormalities that require ongoing surgical management — meaning your condition is serious enough that doctors are actively performing or planning surgical procedures to treat it. SSA looks at documented evidence of the injury itself, the surgical treatment being performed, and how the condition affects your ability to function.

Somatic Symptom Disorder is a mental health condition where distressing physical symptoms—and the anxiety around them—interfere with daily life and work. SSA evaluates it by looking at how severely your symptoms limit your thinking, social functioning, and ability to manage everyday tasks.

Spinal cord disorders are conditions that damage or disrupt the spinal cord, affecting how the body moves, feels, and functions. This category can include injuries, diseases, or other conditions that cause lasting problems with movement, sensation, or body control. SSA evaluates spinal cord disorder claims under Blue Book Listing 11.08, looking at specific functional limitations that result from the condition — such as problems with walking, using your hands and arms, or other significant physical impairments caused by the disorder.

A stroke or cerebrovascular event occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is disrupted, causing damage that can affect movement, speech, thinking, and other functions. SSA evaluates stroke and cerebrovascular disease under Blue Book Listing 11.04, which covers vascular insults to the brain. To qualify, your medical records must show that the neurological effects of your stroke meet specific criteria — labeled A, B, or C — that reflect how severely the condition limits your ability to function.

Thyroid disorders — including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism — no longer have a dedicated SSA listing. Instead, SSA evaluates how your thyroid dysfunction impacts other body systems, like your heart, mood, or joints, using the criteria for those affected systems.

Tinnitus is a condition where you hear persistent ringing, buzzing, or other noises in your ears. SSA does not have a dedicated listing for tinnitus, so claims are evaluated based on how severely the condition — often alongside hearing loss — limits your ability to function and work.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs when the brain is damaged by an external force, such as a blow, jolt, or penetrating injury to the head. SSA evaluates TBI claims under Blue Book Listing 11.18, which covers neurological disorders resulting from brain trauma. To qualify, your condition must meet specific criteria related to the severity and lasting impact of your injury on your ability to function. SSA looks at medical records, test results, and documented functional limitations to determine whether your TBI-related impairments are disabling under their guidelines.

Vasculitis is inflammation of the blood vessels that can damage organs and tissues throughout the body. SSA evaluates systemic vasculitis under its immune system listings, looking at how the inflammation affects your organs, daily functioning, and ability to work.

Vision loss and blindness refer to a significant reduction in your ability to see, whether due to injury, disease, or a degenerative condition. The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates vision loss under its Blue Book listings by looking at how well your better eye can see after the best possible correction — such as glasses or contact lenses. SSA considers three main areas: how sharp your central vision is, how wide your field of vision is, and how efficiently your eye functions overall. These measurements help SSA determine whether your vision loss is severe enough to qualify for disability benefits.