Does Peripheral Neuropathy Qualify for Disability?
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.
What SSA Considers
SSA evaluates peripheral neuropathy under Listing 11.14. To meet this listing, your condition must be characterized by one of two sets of criteria — referred to as Criterion A or Criterion B in the Blue Book. Your medical records must document that your peripheral neuropathy meets the specific functional or clinical requirements described under one of these two criteria. The listing does not automatically cover all cases of peripheral neuropathy; SSA looks for documented evidence that your condition rises to the level of severity outlined under Criterion A or Criterion B.
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 Peripheral Neuropathy, 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
- Complete neurological examination reports from a licensed physician or neurologist
- Nerve conduction studies (NCS) or electromyography (EMG) test results confirming peripheral neuropathy
- Medical records documenting the history, onset, and progression of your symptoms
- Treatment records including medications prescribed and your response to treatment
- Physician's notes describing your functional limitations (e.g., difficulty walking, using hands, or maintaining balance)
- Lab results or diagnostic records identifying any underlying cause (e.g., diabetes, autoimmune condition)
- Statements from treating doctors describing how your condition affects your ability to work or perform daily activities
Frequently Asked Questions (5)
Does having peripheral neuropathy always qualify me for disability benefits?
No. SSA requires that your peripheral neuropathy meet the specific criteria outlined under Listing 11.14 — either Criterion A or Criterion B. Having a diagnosis alone is not enough; your medical records must document the required level of severity.
What kind of doctor should evaluate my peripheral neuropathy for a disability claim?
A neurologist is typically the most relevant specialist for diagnosing and documenting peripheral neuropathy. SSA places significant weight on records from treating physicians, especially specialists who have conducted neurological examinations.
What if my condition doesn't meet Listing 11.14 exactly?
If your condition doesn't meet the listing, SSA may still evaluate your claim by assessing your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) — how your symptoms limit your ability to work. It's important to ensure all your functional limitations are thoroughly documented.
Can peripheral neuropathy caused by diabetes qualify under this listing?
SSA evaluates the functional impact of peripheral neuropathy regardless of its underlying cause. If your diabetic neuropathy meets the criteria under Listing 11.14, it may be considered — your records should clearly document your neurological symptoms and limitations.
How important are nerve conduction studies to my claim?
Nerve conduction studies and EMG tests provide objective evidence of nerve damage and are among the most useful types of documentation for a peripheral neuropathy claim. While they are not the only evidence SSA considers, they can strongly support your medical record.
Blue Book Listing Reference
Primary: 11.14 Peripheral neuropathy,
Neurological Disorders
Source version: 2025-09-11
View source on eCFRRelated Conditions
Learn More
Filing for Disability with Peripheral Neuropathy?
You’ve seen what SSA looks for and what documentation you’ll need. A free case evaluation takes less than two minutes — and having the right support can change the outcome of your claim.
Get Your Free Approval Guide