Understanding Social Security Disability for Migraines

The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes that chronic migraines can be a disabling condition, but they do not have a specific listing for migraines in their Listing of Impairments. However, you can still qualify for Social Security Disability benefits by proving that your migraines meet the SSA’s general disability criteria. This involves demonstrating that your condition prevents you from working and causes significant functional limitations in your daily life.

SSA’s Criteria for Disability with Migraines

To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits for migraines, you need to show that your condition prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals. If your earnings exceed this threshold, your claim will likely be denied.

The SSA will consider the following factors when determining whether your migraines qualify you for SSDI or SSI:

• Frequency and Severity of the Migraines: You must prove that your migraines are chronic, occurring frequently (at least once a week or more), and are severe enough to interfere with your ability to work.
• Duration of the Condition: Migraines must be expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death, per the SSA’s definition of disability.
• Functional Limitations: You need to show how your migraines affect your ability to perform basic work tasks, such as concentrating, staying on task, interacting with coworkers, or being physically present at work. You may need to provide evidence that your migraines cause debilitating symptoms such as:
• Severe headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Aura and visual disturbances
• Dizziness and vertigo
• Cognitive issues like “brain fog”

Proving Your Migraines Are Disabling

To strengthen your Social Security Disability claim for migraines, it’s essential to provide thorough medical documentation that demonstrates the severity and impact of your condition. Here are the steps to take:

• See a Doctor Regularly: Ensure you have a treating physician (neurologist or headache specialist) who can diagnose your migraines and track your symptoms. Regular doctor visits are crucial to building your medical record.
• Document Migraine Episodes: Keep a detailed headache diary to track the frequency, severity, and duration of your migraines. This will serve as key evidence for your claim.
• Obtain Detailed Medical Records: Request a copy of your medical records, including any test results (such as MRIs or CT scans), prescriptions, and notes from your doctor that detail your migraine treatments and any limitations.
• Request a Statement from Your Doctor: A letter from your treating physician explaining how your migraines affect your ability to work and complete daily activities is very helpful. The doctor should include specific details on the frequency of your migraines and how they interfere with your cognitive and physical functions.

The SSA’s Five-Step Evaluation Process for Migraines

When the SSA evaluates your claim for disability due to migraines, they will follow a five-step process:

• Step 1: Are You Working? If you are working and earning more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, your claim will likely be denied. For 2025, the SGA limit is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals.
• Step 2: Is Your Condition Severe? The SSA will assess whether your migraines cause severe limitations in your ability to work and perform basic tasks. Your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from holding a full-time job.
• Step 3: Do You Meet the SSA’s Criteria for Mental Disorders? Since migraines are often associated with cognitive symptoms (like brain fog) or emotional symptoms (such as depression or anxiety), the SSA may assess how these issues impact your ability to function. Migraines can be evaluated under the category of mental disorders, as the cognitive impairments caused by migraines are often comparable to those caused by other mental health conditions.
• Step 4: Can You Do Your Past Work? If your migraines prevent you from doing your past job, the SSA will move on to the next step.
• Step 5: Can You Do Any Other Work? The SSA will assess whether you can perform any other kind of work based on your skills, age, education, and experience. If your migraines severely limit your ability to perform any type of work, you may be approved for benefits.

Be Prepared for a Possible Denial and Appeal

It’s important to note that migraine claims are often denied initially, especially if the medical documentation is insufficient or does not fully demonstrate the severity of your condition. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process involves several stages, including requesting reconsideration, requesting a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), and potentially requesting a review by the Appeals Council.

Consider Getting Legal Help

Given the complexity of applying for Social Security Disability for migraines, it may be beneficial to consult with a disability lawyer or advocate. An experienced attorney can help you:

• Gather and organize the necessary medical evidence to support your claim.
• Complete the application accurately and thoroughly.
• Represent you during the appeal process if your initial claim is denied.