Musculoskeletal Disorders

• Arthritis and other joint diseases that limit movement.
• Back problems, including spinal disorders like degenerative disk disease or herniated disks.
• Amputations and loss of function in limbs.

Cardiovascular Disorders

• Heart disease, including conditions like heart failure, arrhythmia, and coronary artery disease.
• Chronic high blood pressure (hypertension) that leads to complications.

Respiratory Disorders

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Asthma or other serious respiratory conditions.

Neurological Disorders

• Epilepsy: Seizure disorders that are difficult to control.
• Multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease, and other neurodegenerative diseases.
• Brain injuries and other trauma-related disorders.

Mental Health Disorders

• Depression, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders that limit your ability to function in the workplace.
• Schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and autism spectrum disorders.

Cancer

• Various types of cancer, especially if it limits your ability to perform work tasks due to treatment side effects or the severity of the disease.

Endocrine Disorders

• Diabetes with severe complications.
• Thyroid disorders, such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.

Immune System Disorders

• HIV/AIDS with complications.
• Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and other autoimmune diseases.

How the SSA Evaluates Your Disability Claim

The SSA uses a five-step process to evaluate disability claims, which helps determine if your condition qualifies for benefits:

Step 1: Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)

• If you are working and earning more than the SGA threshold (for 2025, this is $1,470 per month), the SSA will likely determine that you are not disabled.

Step 2: Severe Condition

• Your condition must be severe enough to limit your ability to perform basic work functions. This could include issues like severe pain, mental impairment, or limitations on your mobility.

Step 3: Meet a Listed Impairment

• If your condition matches one of the impairments listed in the SSA’s Blue Book and meets the specified medical criteria, you may be presumed to be disabled.

Step 4: Past Work

• If your condition is not on the list of impairments, the SSA will evaluate whether you can still perform your previous job despite your disability. If you can no longer do your past work, they will proceed to the next step.

Step 5: Other Work

• If you can’t do your past work, the SSA will determine whether you can perform any other type of work, given your skills, education, age, and remaining abilities.

How to Apply for Disability

If you believe you meet the qualifications for disability, follow these steps to apply:

• Gather Your Medical Records: Ensure you have thorough documentation of your condition, including treatment history, diagnoses, and doctors’ opinions.
• Fill Out the Application: You can apply online at the SSA website or in person at your local SSA office. Be as detailed and honest as possible about your condition and limitations.
• Follow Up: After submitting your application, keep track of its progress and provide any additional information the SSA may request.

When Should You Apply for Disability?

You should apply for disability benefits as soon as you realize that your condition is preventing you from working. Even if your disability is not immediately listed in the SSA’s impairments list, you can still apply and make your case based on how your condition affects your ability to work.

Can You Qualify for Disability Without a Lawyer?

While hiring a lawyer can increase your chances of success, it’s possible to qualify for disability benefits without legal representation. However, a lawyer can help you navigate the complex application process, especially if you face an appeal after an initial denial.