Eligible Medical Conditions for Social Security Disability

If your medical condition prevents you from working, you can file a claim for Social Security disability benefits. However, not all medical conditions qualify as a disability for the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA has a list of qualifying medical conditions for disability claims. But it can review other impairments to see if they qualify.

You must provide medical evidence to support your disability claim. For more information about eligible medical conditions for disability benefits, talk to a Social Security disability lawyer.

What Medical Conditions Qualify for Social Security Benefits?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is for people who have a medical condition that prevents them from working. However, your condition must meet the SSA’s definition of disability. It doesn’t include temporary or partial disabilities. Your condition must last or be expected to last for at least one year or result in death. Eligible medical conditions include multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (MLS), and cerebral palsy.

A qualifying disability prevents you from substantial gainful activity (SGA). This means you can’t do the work you did before or adjust to other work because of your disability. Your condition must have severe functional limitations that significantly limit your ability to do basic work activities, including:

• Lifting
• Standing
• Walking
• Sitting
• Remembering

State-level Disability Determination Services (DDS) can review your medical records and other information. The SSA uses the records you submit and other information from your healthcare provider. The SSA will determine whether your condition meets the medical criteria for disability.

What Are the Listed Medical Conditions?

The Social Security Administration has a listing of impairments that can establish a disability. This is the Social Security Blue Book. Fourteen types of qualifying conditions affect different systems for adults. These include:

• Musculoskeletal disorders
• Special senses and speech
• Respiratory disorders
• Cardiovascular system
• Digestive disorders
• Genitourinary disorders
• Hematological disorders
• Skin disorders
• Endocrine disorders
• Congenital disorders that affect multiple body systems
• Neurological disorders
• Mental disorders
• Cancer (malignant neoplastic diseases)
• Immune system disorders

If your medical condition isn’t on the list, it doesn’t mean you don’t have a qualifying disability. The SSA will then apply other rules to determine eligibility. The SSA decides if your impairment prevents you from doing your past work or another type of work.

Can You Get Social Security Benefits for a Mental Illness?

Mental health conditions can qualify for Social Security disability. Listed mental disorders include schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and anxiety.

The process for determining a mental impairment disability is the same as for a physical disability. The SSA first determines if your mental health condition is so severe that you can’t work. When you apply, you will need to supply medical evidence to support your disability claim. They may also contact your doctor to evaluate your condition.

Do Temporary Illnesses Qualify for SSDI?

Temporary physical or mental conditions generally don’t qualify for Social Security benefits. To qualify, your medical condition must have lasted or be expected to last at least one year or result in death.

There’s also a qualifying period after applying for SSDI benefits. You are eligible for benefits starting the sixth month after you become disabled. For example, say you are disabled in February 2025. After applying for Social Security, you will start getting monthly benefits in August 2025.

If you have a temporary disability, you may be able to get disability benefits from your insurance provider or employer. If you have disability insurance through your employer, you may be eligible for short-term or long-term disability benefits. If you get injured on the job, you can get workers’ compensation benefits while you’re unable to work.

Can My Doctor Approve Me for Social Security Disability?

The SSA will make its own disability determination. Your doctor saying you have a disability isn’t enough to qualify for SSDI benefits. The SSA will review your supporting medical evidence and information from your doctor. It may require an additional medical evaluation. In some cases, the SSA can arrange for an independent medical evaluation.

Can You Appeal a Disability Determination?

Most people who apply for Social Security disability are not approved. But you can file an appeal for the SSA to reconsider your claim. A Social Security disability lawyer can help you understand why your medical condition was not eligible. Your lawyer can help you get medical evidence to support your claim.

Before you give up, consider getting the help of an attorney to appeal your case. Contact a Social Security disability lawyer for help with appealing your disability claim.