Which Medical Conditions Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits?

You might be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if you have a long-term illness that will prevent you from working for a year or more. But which medical conditions qualify?

What Medical Conditions Qualify for Disability Benefits?

Medical conditions that qualify for disability benefits are in a list maintained by the Social Security Administration (SSA). If the SSA determines that your illness is severe enough to interfere with your job—or prevent you from working—you may be eligible. The SSA may not list your medical condition. But if it is severe enough to impact your ability to work significantly, you may qualify for disability benefits. Which conditions are listed?

Medical Conditions the SSA Evaluates for Disability Benefits

The classifications of medical conditions that qualify for Social Security Disability benefits for adults include:

• Cancer (malignant neoplastic diseases) – Some types of cancer that the SSA evaluates include breast cancer, prostate cancer, and lymphoma.
• Cardiovascular system disorders – Illnesses that affect the arteries, capillaries, veins, and lymphatic drainage may qualify for disability benefits.
• Congenital disorders (affecting multiple body systems) – Chromosomal dysfunction, perinatal infectious diseases, congenital anomalies, dysmorphic syndromes, and hereditary metabolic syndromes are examples of congenital disorders.
• Digestive system disorders – Various digestive system disorders, including gastrointestinal bleeding, chronic liver disease, hepatitis, and inflammatory bowel disease, are medical conditions that may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits.
• Endocrine disorders – Adrenal, thyroid, parathyroid, pancreas, and pituitary gland disorders can be severe enough to impact your ability to work. Diabetes and hypoglycemia are pancreatic gland disorders.
• Genitourinary disorders – Genitourinary diseases affect the urinary and genital tracts.
• Hematological disorders – Chronic kidney disorders can lead to neuropathy, hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, kidney transplant, or other issues. And they may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits.
• Immune system disorders – The SSA evaluates autoimmune and immune deficiency disorders that cause severe signs and symptoms.
• Mental disorders – Some mental disorders on the SSA’s list include neurocognitive, psychotic, depression, bipolar disorder, and the autism spectrum. 
• Musculoskeletal disorders – Skeletal spine disorders or conditions that affect musculoskeletal functioning might be eligible for disability benefits.
• Neurological disorders – The SSA evaluates epilepsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, neuromuscular dysfunction, and other neurological disorders.
• Respiratory disorders – Pulmonary fibrosis, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema are some respiratory disorders that can prevent you from working.
• Skin disorders – Chronic, extensive, and painful skin conditions affect each person differently. Therefore, the SSA will evaluate your case.
• Special senses and speech impairment – Visual disorders, hearing loss, vestibular conditions, and speech impairment or loss are qualifying conditions that the SSA will evaluate.

Visit the Social Security Administration’s website for a complete list of medical conditions that qualify for disability benefits.

Will Your Medical Condition Qualify for Social Security Disability?

Your medical condition may qualify for Social Security Disability if the SSA determines it is severe enough to affect your ability to work for a year or longer. Some factors that SSA will evaluate include:

• Objective medical evidence of your impairment from an acceptable source
• The severity of your condition
• Evidence of your symptoms
• Past and current treatment and its effect on your condition
• Your work responsibilities and environment

How Can You Get Approved for SSDI or SSI?

You can get approved for SSDI or SSI with an accurate, complete, and timely application. Many denied applications lack essential information for the Social Security Administration to evaluate the case.

At Wogwu Law of San Antonio, Texas our knowledge of SSDI and SSI will guide you in filling out your application accurately. We will ensure your application is complete and on time. And we use simple language to help you understand the Social Security Disability process and your rights. If your case goes to court, we will vigorously represent you. Contact Attorney Lisa Wogwu for a consultation.