Does SSDI Have a List of Qualifying Conditions?

Yes. The SSA maintains a Listing of Impairments, also known as the Blue Book, which outlines medical conditions that may qualify for SSDI if they meet specific criteria. However, you can still be approved even if your condition is not listed, as long as it is severe enough to prevent you from working.

Common Medical Conditions That May Qualify for SSDI

Here are categories and examples of conditions that often qualify for SSDI benefits:

1. Musculoskeletal Disorders

• Severe back injuries or disorders (herniated discs, degenerative disc disease)
• Joint dysfunction (hip, knee, or shoulder replacements with limitations)
• Severe fractures of limbs that have not healed properly
• Amputation of limbs affecting work ability

2. Neurological Disorders

• Epilepsy (despite treatment)
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Parkinson’s disease
• Cerebral palsy
• Stroke with lasting limitations
• Peripheral neuropathy affecting mobility or hand use

3. Cardiovascular Conditions

• Chronic heart failure
• Coronary artery disease requiring surgery or causing severe limitations
• Recurrent arrhythmias despite treatment

4. Respiratory Disorders

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Severe asthma
• Pulmonary fibrosis
• Cystic fibrosis

5. Mental Disorders

• Severe depression or bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Anxiety disorders with severe limitations
• Autism spectrum disorders (adults)
• Intellectual disorders with significant work limitations

6. Immune System Disorders

• Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus)
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• HIV/AIDS with significant complications

7. Cancer

• Many types of cancer qualify, depending on their stage, aggressiveness, and response to treatment.
• Cancers with metastasis or requiring intensive treatment often qualify automatically.

8. Endocrine Disorders

• Diabetes with severe complications (neuropathy, retinopathy, organ damage)
• Thyroid disorders causing significant limitations

What If My Condition Is Not Listed?

Even if your condition is not in the SSA’s Blue Book, you can still qualify if you can prove that:

• Your medical condition is severe enough to prevent you from performing any substantial gainful activity (SGA).
• It prevents you from doing any of your past work or adjusting to other work based on your age, education, and work history.
• It is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.

What Medical Evidence Do You Need?

To qualify, you must provide strong medical evidence, including:

• Detailed treatment records from your doctors, hospitals, and specialists
• Lab test results, imaging studies, and diagnostic evaluations
• Statements from treating physicians explaining your condition, symptoms, and how they limit your daily life and work ability