Understanding Depression as a Qualifying Condition for Disability

Depression is classified as a mental disorder under the SSA’s Listing of Impairments, which details the medical conditions that can qualify an individual for disability benefits. However, in order to be eligible for benefits, your depression must meet the SSA’s severity criteria.

Medical Documentation: To qualify for disability, the SSA will need medical documentation showing that your depression is severe enough to prevent you from working. This includes medical records, doctor’s notes, therapy reports, and any other documentation from mental health professionals.

Functional Limitations: The SSA will also evaluate how your depression impacts your ability to perform basic work-related tasks, such as concentrating, following instructions, and interacting with others. If your condition limits your functioning to the extent that you are unable to work, you may qualify for disability benefits.

How the SSA Evaluates Depression for Disability

The SSA evaluates mental health conditions, including depression, using a five-step sequential evaluation process:

Step 1: Are You Working?

• If you are currently earning more than a certain threshold (known as Substantial Gainful Activity, or SGA), you may be disqualified from receiving benefits. For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,470 per month ($2,460 for blind individuals).

Step 2: Is Your Depression Severe?

• Your depression must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work-related activities. The SSA will look for evidence that your depression is more than just a mild condition and affects your daily life.

Step 3: Does Your Depression Meet the SSA’s Listing?

• The SSA has a Listing of Impairments that includes a depression section. If your depression meets the criteria outlined in the listing (including symptoms like persistent depressive moods, loss of interest in activities, and difficulty concentrating), you may automatically qualify for benefits.

Step 4: Can You Do Your Previous Work?

• The SSA will assess whether your depression prevents you from performing your previous work. If your depression makes it impossible for you to continue in your previous role, they will proceed to the next step.

Step 5: Can You Do Other Work?

• Finally, the SSA will determine if your depression allows you to do other kinds of work based on your age, education, and work history. If they determine that you are unable to perform any work, you may be approved for disability benefits.

How to Apply for Disability with Depression

To apply for disability benefits due to depression, follow these steps:

Gather Medical Evidence:

• Collect medical records, including therapy or counseling notes, psychiatric evaluations, and any other documents that show the severity of your depression.
• Ask your doctor or therapist to provide a letter detailing how your depression limits your ability to function in a work setting.

Complete the Application:

• You can apply for Social Security Disability benefits online through the SSA’s website or by calling your local SSA office to schedule an appointment.
• Be honest and thorough when filling out the application, and make sure to include all necessary medical records and documentation.

Submit Your Application:

• Ensure that your application is complete and includes all required documents to avoid delays. The SSA may also request additional medical evidence during the process.

Wait for a Decision:

• After you submit your application, the SSA will review your case. The process can take several months, and many people are initially denied. If you are denied, you have the option to appeal the decision.

What to Do if Your Disability Claim for Depression Is Denied

It’s common for Social Security Disability claims, including those for depression, to be denied initially. If this happens, don’t be discouraged. You can appeal the decision and improve your chances of success by:

• Requesting Reconsideration: The first step in the appeals process is requesting the SSA to review your claim again.
• Requesting a Hearing: If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), where you can present your case in person.
• Gathering Additional Evidence: If new medical evidence becomes available, be sure to submit it to strengthen your case.