Common Conditions That Qualify for Social Security Disability and How to Prove You Cannot Work

Applying for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can be a challenging process, but certain medical conditions are more commonly approved than others. Understanding these conditions and how to prove your inability to work can help strengthen your claim.

Most Common Conditions That Qualify for SSD Benefits

The Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates disability claims based on the severity of a medical condition and how it limits a person’s ability to work. While any severe medical condition may qualify, the following are some of the most commonly approved:

1. Musculoskeletal Disorders

• Back injuries (e.g., herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis)

• Osteoarthritis

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Amputations

How to Prove It: Medical imaging (MRIs, X-rays), functional capacity evaluations, and doctor’s statements outlining mobility limitations are crucial.

2. Mental Health Disorders

• Depression and anxiety disorders

• Bipolar disorder

• Schizophrenia

• Autism spectrum disorder

How to Prove It: Psychiatric evaluations, records of inpatient hospitalizations, therapy notes, and statements from mental health providers can help substantiate your claim.

3. Cardiovascular Conditions

• Chronic heart failure

• Coronary artery disease

• Arrhythmias

• Peripheral artery disease

How to Prove It: Cardiac stress tests, echocardiograms, EKG results, and records of repeated hospitalizations or emergency visits are essential.

4. Neurological Disorders

• Multiple sclerosis (MS)

• Parkinson’s disease

• Epilepsy

• Stroke-related disabilities

  
  

How to Prove It: Neurological exams, brain MRIs, seizure logs, and evidence of cognitive or physical impairments can be used to support your claim.

5. Respiratory Disorders

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

• Asthma (severe and uncontrolled)

• Cystic fibrosis

How to Prove It: Pulmonary function tests, oxygen dependency records, and emergency room visits due to breathing issues help establish the severity.

6. Autoimmune and Immune System Disorders

• Lupus

• HIV/AIDS (if severe)

• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

• Chronic kidney disease

How to Prove It: Lab tests, specialist reports, and medical records detailing recurring symptoms and treatments are crucial.

How to Prove You Cannot Work

Even if you have a severe medical condition, proving that you cannot work requires strong supporting evidence. Here’s how to build a compelling case:

1. Obtain Comprehensive Medical Records

   • Regular visits to your doctor create a record of ongoing treatment and worsening symptoms.

   • SSA requires evidence from licensed medical professionals.

     
     

2. Document Functional Limitations

   • Detailed physician statements explaining how your condition affects your ability to sit, stand, lift, focus, or complete tasks.

   • Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessments can be valuable.

     
     

3. Provide Work History and Vocational Evidence

   • Explain why your symptoms prevent you from performing past work.

   • If you are over 50, SSA considers how easily you could transition to another type of work under the Medical-Vocational Guidelines (Grid Rules).

     
     

4. Include Statements from Family, Friends, or Employers

   • Testimonies from those who see your daily struggles can help support your claim.

     
     

Conclusion

Winning an SSD claim requires proving both the severity of your medical condition and how it prevents you from working. By gathering strong medical evidence, documenting functional limitations, and working with an experienced disability advocate or attorney, you can improve your chances of approval. If you need assistance with your application or appeal, contact our office today for expert guidance.