Does Kidney Cancer Qualify for Disability?
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.
What SSA Considers
Under Blue Book Listing 13.21, SSA evaluates carcinoma of the kidneys, adrenal glands, or ureters. The listing specifically identifies these three anatomical sites as the basis for a disability determination under this category. To meet this listing, your medical records must document a confirmed carcinoma diagnosis affecting one or more of these structures. SSA will review the clinical and pathological evidence in your file to assess whether your condition satisfies the requirements of this listing.
What You Could Receive
National payment amounts across all disability programs — not specific to any condition. Individual amounts vary based on earnings history and state supplements.
Avg New SSDI Award
$1,821/mo
Max SSDI Benefit
$4,152/mo
SSI Individual Rate
$994/mo
SSI Couple Rate
$1,491/mo
SSDI amounts based on your earnings record. SSI is the 2026 federal rate; some states add a supplement.
What If Your Condition Doesn't Match Exactly?
Many people qualify through a medical-vocational allowance, even when their condition doesn't exactly match a Blue Book listing. SSA considers your age, work history, symptoms, and functional limits together. Strong medical documentation is the key. Learn more about qualifying without an exact match →
Ready to Start Your Claim?
If you have Kidney Cancer, the right medical documentation can make the difference. Get a free personalized Approval Guide with a documentation checklist and next-step guidance for your claim.
Get Your Free GuideWhat You'll Need to File
- Pathology or biopsy report confirming a carcinoma diagnosis of the kidney, adrenal gland, or ureter
- Operative or surgical reports related to any tumor removal or related procedures
- Imaging studies such as CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds showing the extent of the tumor
- Oncologist or treating physician's notes documenting diagnosis, treatment plan, and response to treatment
- Lab results including blood work, urinalysis, or tumor marker tests relevant to your diagnosis
- Records of any chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy received
- Hospital discharge summaries related to cancer treatment or surgery
Frequently Asked Questions (5)
Does SSA automatically approve all kidney cancer claims?
No. SSA reviews your specific medical records to determine whether your diagnosis meets the criteria under Listing 13.21. Thorough, well-documented evidence is important to support your claim.
What type of kidney cancer does Listing 13.21 cover?
Listing 13.21 specifically covers carcinoma of the kidneys, adrenal glands, or ureters. Your medical records should confirm a carcinoma diagnosis in one or more of these locations.
Do I need to have had surgery to qualify under this listing?
The listing does not require surgery as a condition for evaluation. SSA reviews your overall medical evidence, which may include surgical records if applicable, but the focus is on your confirmed carcinoma diagnosis.
What if my kidney cancer has spread to other parts of the body?
Your medical records documenting the extent and spread of your cancer are important evidence for SSA to review. Make sure imaging reports and oncologist notes clearly describe the current status of your condition.
Can I still apply if my cancer is being treated or is in remission?
You can still apply for disability benefits while undergoing treatment. SSA will evaluate your condition and the impact of your illness and treatment on your ability to work based on the evidence in your file.
Blue Book Listing Reference
Primary: 13.21 Kidneys, adrenal glands, or ureters
Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases)
Source version: 2025-09-11
View source on eCFRRelated Conditions
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Filing for Disability with Kidney Cancer?
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