Musculoskeletal Disorders

Musculoskeletal disorders affect the bones, joints, and soft tissues and can significantly impair mobility and the ability to perform basic work functions. Common conditions include:

• Arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis)
• Back injuries (herniated discs, spinal stenosis)
• Joint pain and disorders (hip replacements, knee replacements)
• Skeletal deformities (such as scoliosis)

Cardiovascular Conditions

Cardiovascular diseases affect the heart and blood vessels, potentially leading to life-threatening situations. Some qualifying conditions include:

• Heart failure
• Coronary artery disease
• Cardiomyopathy
• Severe hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Angina (chest pain)

Mental Disorders

Mental health conditions are another major category for SSD eligibility. To qualify, the condition must be severe enough to prevent basic work activity. Conditions include:

• Depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Anxiety disorders
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Neurological Disorders

Neurological disorders affect the brain and nervous system and can result in significant functional impairments. Common qualifying conditions include:

• Epilepsy (seizures)
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Parkinson’s disease
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Stroke (CVA)
• Brain injuries or tumors

Respiratory Conditions

Respiratory disorders can prevent an individual from performing basic tasks due to breathing difficulties. Some conditions that qualify for SSD include:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Severe asthma
• Pulmonary fibrosis
• Cystic fibrosis
• Sleep apnea

Digestive System Disorders

Certain gastrointestinal conditions can prevent you from working, particularly if they cause severe pain, nausea, or require frequent hospital visits. Conditions include:

• Crohn’s disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Cirrhosis of the liver
• Liver failure
• Gastrointestinal bleeding

Cancer

Cancer is one of the most recognized qualifying conditions for Social Security Disability benefits. If you have a diagnosis of cancer that severely impairs your ability to work, you may qualify. Some examples include:

• Lung cancer
• Breast cancer
• Leukemia
• Lymphoma
• Pancreatic cancer

Endocrine Disorders

Endocrine disorders involve the glands that produce hormones, and they can result in serious health issues that affect your ability to function. Common qualifying conditions include:

• Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2)
• Thyroid disorders
• Adrenal gland disorders
• Pituitary gland disorders

Immune System Disorders

Immunodeficiencies or autoimmune diseases can severely weaken the body’s ability to fight off infections, making it difficult to maintain employment. Conditions include:

• HIV/AIDS
• Lupus
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Multiple sclerosis
• Scleroderma

Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is a serious condition that can prevent individuals from working. Treatment often requires dialysis or a kidney transplant. Qualifying conditions include:

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
• Dialysis dependence
• Kidney failure

How to Prove Your Disability

Regardless of the condition you have, you must provide medical evidence that shows your disability prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. This evidence can include:

• Doctor’s notes
• Medical test results
• Hospital records
• Statements from specialists

The SSA will carefully review your medical documentation to determine whether your condition qualifies under their Listing of Impairments.