Pregnancy Alone Does Not Qualify for SSDI

Typically, pregnancy is not considered a disabling condition by the SSA. The SSA does not provide SSDI benefits simply due to being pregnant, as pregnancy is considered a temporary condition. However, if your pregnancy leads to complications that cause severe restrictions on your ability to work, you may be able to qualify for SSDI.

Qualifying for SSDI Based on Pregnancy Complications

If your pregnancy results in complications that prevent you from working for at least 12 months, you might qualify for SSDI. These complications could include:

• Pre-eclampsia: A pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and potential organ damage.
• Gestational Diabetes: A condition that can affect both the mother and the baby.
• Bed Rest: If your doctor orders bed rest for a significant amount of time due to the pregnancy.
• Severe Morning Sickness: In extreme cases, if nausea and vomiting prevent you from working for an extended period.
• Other Serious Pregnancy-Related Conditions: Any condition that severely impacts your ability to work, such as a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy, may qualify if it results in long-term physical limitations.

If you experience any of these or other serious complications, it's important to gather detailed medical records and documentation from your healthcare provider to support your claim.

Understanding the SSA’s Disability Criteria

The SSA evaluates your eligibility for SSDI benefits based on the following criteria:

• Severe Condition: Your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA), meaning you cannot work and earn above a certain threshold. For 2025, the SGA threshold is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals.
• Duration of Disability: The SSA requires that your disability lasts for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. This is crucial since pregnancy complications that resolve within a few months may not meet the duration requirement for SSDI.
• Medical Evidence: You will need strong medical evidence that demonstrates how your condition (related to pregnancy complications) prevents you from working. This may include doctor’s notes, hospital records, test results, and recommendations for bed rest or other limitations.

Other Benefits You May Be Eligible For

While pregnancy itself may not qualify you for SSDI, there are other programs that may assist you during your pregnancy:

• Temporary Disability Benefits: Some states have temporary disability insurance (TDI) programs that provide income replacement for individuals who are temporarily unable to work due to pregnancy or childbirth. The availability of TDI varies by state.
• Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): The FMLA allows for up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for pregnancy and childbirth, but this leave does not provide income replacement.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): If your income is limited, you may also apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is a needs-based program for people with disabilities or limited financial resources. However, SSI eligibility is based on income and resources, and pregnancy alone won’t make you eligible.

How to Apply for SSDI During Pregnancy Complications

If pregnancy complications are preventing you from working and you meet the SSA’s requirements, you can apply for SSDI by following these steps:

Gather Your Medical Records

The SSA will need thorough medical documentation showing that your condition is severe enough to prevent you from working. You will need to provide:

• Doctor’s reports detailing your pregnancy complications and how they affect your ability to work.
• Hospital records and test results that support the severity of your condition.
• Statements from your treating physician explaining the limitations and any recommended treatments or bed rest.

Submit Your SSDI Application

Once you have the necessary documentation, you can apply for SSDI through one of the following methods:

• Apply Online: The SSA provides an online portal to apply for SSDI at www.ssa.gov.
• Apply by Phone: You can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to apply by phone.
• Apply In-Person: You can also apply in person at your local SSA office. It is best to make an appointment in advance to avoid long wait times.

Follow the SSDI Process

After you submit your application, the SSA will review your case. SSDI applications typically take 3 to 5 months to process, though it can take longer if additional information is needed. Be prepared for the possibility of an initial denial, which is common for many SSDI applicants. If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision.

Be Prepared for a Denial and Appeal

It’s common for SSDI claims to be denied initially, even if you meet the eligibility criteria. If your claim is denied, don’t give up. You can appeal the decision through the following steps:

• Request Reconsideration: If your claim is denied, the first step in the appeals process is requesting reconsideration. A different SSA representative will review your case and any new evidence you provide.
• Request a Hearing: If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ).
• Appeals Council and Federal Court: If the ALJ denies your case, you can take your appeal to the SSA’s Appeals Council or even pursue your case in federal court.