Disabling Conditions Eligible for Social Security Disability

Contained on this page is a listing of disabling conditions that can be considered severe enough by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to qualify a person for Social Security disability benefits. These conditions can interfere with an individual’s ability to achieve gainful employment, thereby making that person eligible for SSDI or SSI benefits.

Many of these conditions are described in the impairment listing manual, or "Blue Book," used by state-run Disability Determination Services (DDS) to determine whether or not a person meets the SSA's criteria for total disability. Claimants who meet the eligibility criteria for a condition listed in the Blue Book should be awarded benefits through the Social Security Disability application process.

In addition to the Blue Book conditions listed below, individuals may qualify for disability benefits under one of the SSA's 200+ Compassionate Allowance listings. Through the Compassionate Allowance initiative, claimants suffering from extremely severe medical conditions may qualify for expedited consideration of their Social Security Disability claim, thereby drastically reducing the waiting period before approval.

If you believe that you are disabled and would like to know more about applying for Social Security Disability with any of the following conditions, please click on the name of the disease for detailed information about symptoms, diagnoses, and SSA disability criteria for that particular condition. Additionally, you can complete a free evaluation form to find out if you qualify.

Cardiovascular System

Conditions of the heart, such as High Blood Pressure, Heart Failure and Blood Clots

Digestive System

Digestive disorders, such as Crohn's Disease, and Hepatitis.

Endocrine System

Conditions of the glands that secrete hormones, such as Thyroid Disorders and Obesity

Genitourinary Impairments

Impairments concerning the reproductive organs and urinary system, including ones requiring Dialysis such as Renal Disease.

Hematological Disorders

Blood disorders, such as Chronic Anemia and Sickle Cell Disease

Immune System Disorders

Conditions of the immune system, including HIV and Lupus

Malignant Neoplastic Diseases

This concerns various forms of Cancer, including Breast Cancer and Prostate Cancer

Mental Disorders

Mental illnesses, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Schizophrenia

Multiple Body System Impairments

Conditions that affect multiple body systems, including Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.

Musculoskeletal System

Conditions that affect the muscular and skeletal systems, including Herniated Discs and Degenerative Disc Disease

Neurological Problems

Disorders of the body's nervous system, including Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy

Respiratory System

Concerning the lungs and the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide, such as Asthma and Lung Infections

Skin Disorders

Problems of the skin, including Cellulitis and Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Special Senses and Speech

Impairments concerning sight and hearing, such as Hearing Loss and Vision Loss

Working With an Attorney

It's always a good idea to speak with an attorney when applying for a claim, regardless of your diagnosis. Qualifying for Social Security is determined by your medical eligibility and how severely your condition affects your ability to work--an attorney can help explain the process and represent your case in court if need be.

Last Updated: 3/12/2018