Does Lyme Disease Qualify for Disability?

What SSA Considers

SSA does not have a dedicated Blue Book listing for Lyme disease, so your claim is evaluated by looking at how your symptoms affect specific body systems. For joint-related symptoms, SSA looks at whether you have documented inflammation, swelling, or deformity in your joints — and whether those problems make it hard to walk, use your hands, or care for yourself. For neurological symptoms, SSA looks at whether you have nerve damage, weakness, or loss of feeling that affects how you move or function. SSA also considers cognitive symptoms like memory loss or difficulty concentrating, and how fatigue limits how long you can sit, stand, or stay focused during a workday. The stronger and more consistent your medical records are across these areas, the clearer the picture for SSA.

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.

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 →

What You'll Need to File

• Positive Lyme disease blood test results (ELISA and Western blot)
• Rheumatologist or infectious disease specialist records documenting joint inflammation and swelling
• Neurologist records documenting nerve damage, weakness, or sensory loss
• Brain or spinal cord MRI results (if neurological symptoms are present)
• Nerve conduction study (EMG/NCS) results showing peripheral nerve damage
• Records of cognitive testing or neuropsychological evaluation documenting memory or concentration problems
• Primary care physician notes tracking the duration and progression of your symptoms
• Treatment history including antibiotics, physical therapy, and any hospitalizations
• Physical therapy or occupational therapy evaluations showing functional limitations
• A written statement from your doctor describing how your symptoms limit your daily activities and ability to work

How to build a strong medical evidence file →

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