Disabling Conditions Eligible for Social Security Disability
There are hundreds of conditions that are considered severe enough by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to qualify for Social Security disability benefits. These conditions can interfere with an individual’s ability to earn income and maintain employment, thereby making that person medically eligible for SSDI or SSI benefits.
Many disabling conditions are described in the SSA's medical manual, otherwise known as the "Blue Book." The Blue Book is used by Disability Determination Services (DDS) to evaluate whether or not an applicant is able to meet the SSA's criteria for disability benefits eligibility. SSDI applicants who have a condition listed in the Blue Book have a good chance of being awarded benefits through the Social Security disability application process. It can be very challenging to win a disability claim without a qualifying disabling condition.
In addition to meeting one of the SSA's hundreds of Blue Book conditions, applicants might be able to qualify for one of the SSA's 200+ Compassionate Allowance listings. The Compassionate Allowance initiative expedites applications from claimants suffering from extremely severe medical conditions. This dramatically reduces the average approval wait time for people with serious conditions.
If you believe that you have a disabling condition and would like to know more about how you can apply for Social Security disability with your illness or injury, please fill out our Free Evaluation to be connected with a Social Security disability advocate or attorney in your area. A Social Security attorney can help determine if DDS will approve your claim, and help you get the application process started.
Last Updated 7/28/2017
