Step 1: Understand the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Criteria for PTSD

To qualify for Social Security Disability benefits for PTSD, you must prove that your condition meets the SSA’s definition of a disability. The SSA considers PTSD a mental health condition that may qualify for benefits if it severely limits your ability to perform basic work activities, such as concentrating, interacting with others, or following instructions.

The SSA evaluates PTSD claims using the following criteria:

• Marked limitation in at least two of the following areas:
• Understanding or applying information
• Interacting with others
• Concentrating or maintaining pace
• Adapting or managing oneself, or
• Extreme limitation in one of these areas, or a total inability to function in one of these areas.

Step 2: Gather Medical Documentation of Your PTSD

The most important part of your application is providing sufficient medical evidence to prove that your PTSD is severe enough to prevent you from working. The SSA will look for detailed medical records that show how your PTSD affects your daily life and your ability to maintain gainful employment.

Steps to gather medical documentation include:

• See a Doctor Regularly: It’s crucial to have ongoing treatment for your PTSD, whether that be through therapy, counseling, or medication. Consistent visits to a mental health professional will create a clear medical record of your condition.
• Get a Diagnosis from a Qualified Professional: You will need a diagnosis from a licensed mental health provider (such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist) who can document the severity of your PTSD and how it impacts your ability to function.
• Obtain Medical Records: Request copies of your medical records, including your therapist’s notes, psychiatric evaluations, treatment plans, and any other relevant documentation from your doctors.
• Personal Statement: A personal statement detailing how PTSD affects your daily life, including specific examples of how it prevents you from working, can strengthen your case.

Step 3: Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits

Once you’ve gathered the necessary medical documentation, you can apply for Social Security Disability benefits. You can apply online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. Be prepared to provide:

• Personal Information: This includes your Social Security number, contact details, work history, and income information.
• Medical Information: All the medical documentation related to your PTSD, including doctor’s notes, treatment records, and any other supporting materials.
• Work History: Detailed records of your employment over the past 15 years, including the type of work you did and the dates you worked.

Make sure your application is complete and accurate. Missing or incorrect information can delay the process or result in a denial.

Step 4: Understand the SSA’s Five-Step Evaluation Process

When reviewing your application for PTSD, the SSA will follow a five-step process to determine if you meet the qualifications for Social Security Disability benefits:

• Step 1: Are You Working? If you are currently working and earning above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, your claim will likely be denied. In 2025, the SGA limit is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals.
• Step 2: Is Your Condition Severe? The SSA will evaluate whether your PTSD significantly limits your ability to do basic work activities. If your symptoms are severe and interfere with your ability to work, you may meet this requirement.
• Step 3: Is Your Condition on the SSA’s List of Impairments? PTSD is not explicitly listed in the SSA’s “Listing of Impairments,” but the SSA evaluates mental health conditions, including PTSD, under the category of Mental Disorders. The SSA uses a specific criteria for mental disorders, which includes assessing the severity of your symptoms and their impact on your ability to function.
• Step 4: Can You Do Your Past Work? The SSA will evaluate whether you can perform any of your previous jobs. If your PTSD prevents you from performing your past work, the evaluation moves to the next step.
• Step 5: Can You Do Any Other Work? If you are unable to perform your previous job, the SSA will assess whether you can do other types of work considering your skills, education, and age.

Step 5: Be Prepared for a Possible Denial and Appeal

It’s common for claims for Social Security Disability benefits, especially mental health conditions like PTSD, to be denied initially. If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process involves several stages:

• Request for Reconsideration: You can ask the SSA to review your case again. If the reconsideration is denied, you can move to the next stage.
• Request a Hearing: If your reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). At the hearing, you will have the opportunity to present your case, including medical evidence and testimony, to argue why you qualify for benefits.
• Appeals Council: If your hearing is unsuccessful, you can request a review by the SSA’s Appeals Council.

Step 6: Consider Getting Legal Help

Navigating the SSDI application process for PTSD can be complicated, especially if your initial application is denied. A lawyer or advocate experienced in Social Security Disability claims can help you understand the process, gather the necessary evidence, and represent you in hearings or appeals.