When High Blood Pressure May Qualify for SSDI

The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not list high blood pressure by itself as a qualifying condition in its Blue Book (the official list of impairments). But that doesn’t mean your claim will be denied. You may qualify if:

• Your blood pressure causes or contributes to serious complications, such as:
• Heart disease (including congestive heart failure)
• Chronic kidney disease
• Vision problems
• Strokes or mini-strokes (TIAs)
• Cognitive impairment
• Your condition affects your ability to perform basic work tasks, such as standing, walking, concentrating, or lifting

The SSA will evaluate how your high blood pressure and any related conditions impact your daily functioning, not just the diagnosis itself.

Medical Evidence You’ll Need

To qualify for SSDI, you’ll need to submit comprehensive medical documentation that supports your claim. Here’s what can help strengthen your case:

• Blood pressure readings over time showing consistently high levels, despite treatment
• Medical records from cardiologists, nephrologists, or primary care doctors
• Results from EKGs, echocardiograms, lab tests, or imaging that show the effects of hypertension
• Documentation of any hospitalizations or emergency visits related to your condition
• Statements from your doctors explaining how your symptoms limit your ability to work

Consistency and detail are key. The SSA wants to see not just your diagnosis, but how it affects your functional capacity over time.

High Blood Pressure and the SSA’s Evaluation Process

The SSA uses a five-step process to determine if you qualify for disability benefits:

• Are you working? If you earn more than a certain amount, you may not qualify.
• Is your condition severe? It must significantly interfere with your ability to do basic work.
• Does your condition meet or equal a listed impairment? Hypertension may not be listed, but complications like heart failure or kidney disease are.
• Can you perform past work? The SSA considers whether you can return to your old job.
• Can you perform other work? If not, based on your age, education, and work experience, you may be considered disabled.

Even if your condition doesn’t meet a listing, you can still be approved if you prove that your functional limitations prevent you from working any job on a consistent basis.

What If You’ve Been Denied?

If you applied for SSDI due to high blood pressure and were denied:

• Don’t give up—many valid claims are denied at first
• File a reconsideration or appeal within 60 days
• Submit updated medical evidence or records showing complications or worsening symptoms
• Consider getting help from a disability attorney to guide you through the appeal process