No condition automatically qualifies you for Disability benefits. However, the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Blue Book lists severe medical impairments that, if they meet specific criteria, may qualify for benefits more easily.
Even if your condition is in the Blue Book, you must still provide strong medical evidence to prove its severity and how it limits your ability to work. The claims process can be complex, and many initial applications are denied due to incomplete or insufficient evidence.
Our Houston Social Security Disability lawyer can handle your Social Security Disability benefits application, ensuring it is accurate, complete, and supported by the right medical documentation, which all can help your chances of approval. You can learn more during a free consultation.
Call or text 800-562-9830 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
Medical Conditions that Can Qualify for Social Security Disability
The SSA’s listing of impairments, also known as the Blue Book, lists specific medical conditions that meet the criteria for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
If your condition is on this list and meets the severity level the SSA requires, it could approve your claim more quickly.
Some of the conditions that qualify include:
- Neurological disorders: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Musculoskeletal disorders: Spinal disorders, severe arthritis, amputation
- Cardiovascular conditions: Chronic heart failure, coronary artery disease
- Respiratory disorders: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis
- Mental disorders: Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, autism
- Cancers: Certain aggressive cancers, such as pancreatic or liver cancer
- Immune system disorders: Lupus, HIV/AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis
Even if you don’t see your condition on the list, you may still qualify if your medical records show your impairment is severe enough to prevent you from working.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-562-9830
How the Social Security Administration Determines Qualification
To qualify for Disability, your condition must:
- Appear in the SSA’s Blue Book
- Meet the listed severity level
- Be supported by medical evidence from doctors, test results, and treatment records
If your condition does not exactly match a listed condition but is similarly disabling, the SSA will still consider your case. Our Houston Disability lawyer will present the strongest argument for your eligibility.
What if My Condition Is Not Listed in the SSA’s Blue Book?
If your medical condition is not specifically listed in the SSA’s Blue Book, you may still qualify for disability benefits by proving:
- Your condition prevents you from working and performing daily activities.
- You have medical evidence supporting the severity of your condition.
- You have a residual functional capacity (RFC) assessment from your doctor showing your limitations. This assessment details how your condition affects your ability to perform work-related tasks such as standing, walking, lifting, or concentrating for extended periods.
This process can be more challenging, but a Disability attorney can help gather and submit the necessary medical evidence.
What Medical Evidence Do I Need to Qualify?
The SSA requires strong medical evidence to approve your claim. This includes:
- Doctor’s diagnosis and treatment records
- Imaging scans (MRIs, X-rays, CT scans)
- Lab results (blood tests, biopsies)
- Statements from medical professionals describing your limitations
- Medication history and how it affects your condition
- Work history records showing how your condition prevents you from performing past jobs
- Daily living impact statements that explain how your disability affects routine activities
Without sufficient evidence, even a qualifying condition may be denied. Because the SSA denies many initial benefits claims, working with our Houston Social Security Disability denial lawyers can help present stronger medical evidence to help your application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the SSD Process
Navigating a Social Security Disability claim can be complex, especially when it comes to understanding which conditions qualify and what evidence you need.
Below are answers to common questions about SSD benefits to help clarify the process.
How Long Does It Take to Get Approved for Disability With an Automatic Condition?
While some conditions qualify for Compassionate Allowances (fast-tracked approvals), most claims still take several months for a decision.
What if My Disability Claim Is Denied?
Many claims are denied initially. You can appeal the decision, and an experienced Disability attorney can improve your chances of success.
Can I Hold a Job While Receiving Disability Benefits?
There are strict income limits. However, the SSA allows some work under the Trial Work Period (TWP) to help individuals on Disability transition back to employment.
Do I Need a Lawyer to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits?
While not required, having a Disability lawyer can help streamline the application process and help your chances of approval, especially if your condition is not automatically listed or if you need to appeal a denied claim.
Want to Know if Your Condition Qualifies You for Disability Benefits? Call Us
While no conditions automatically qualify or guarantee that someone will receive Social Security benefits, certain medical conditions listed in the SSA’s Blue Book may make the approval process easier if they meet the criteria and applicants have strong medical proof to support them.
If you have a condition that prevents you from working, you deserve the benefits you’re entitled to receive. At Marc Whitehead & Associates, Disability law is all we do. We have over 120 years of combined experience helping people just like you secure their SSDI or SSI benefits.
Our firm has deep knowledge of the SSA’s requirements, so we will fight for the benefits you deserve. We also handle cases on contingency, so you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Don’t go through the Disability claims process alone. Call us today for a free consultation.
