Qualifying Conditions for Disability Benefits
The SSA evaluates disability claims using the Blue Book — Listing of Impairments. Learn which conditions qualify and what evidence you need.
About the SSA Blue Book
The Social Security Administration uses the Blue Book (Listing of Impairments) to evaluate whether a medical condition qualifies for disability benefits. The Blue Book is organized into 14 body system categories, each with specific medical criteria that must be met.
Even if your condition doesn't meet a specific listing, you may still qualify through a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment, which evaluates how your condition limits your ability to work. Learn more about the Blue Book →
All Qualifying Conditions
Back & Spine Disorders
1.15-1.16Degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and spinal cord disorders.
Learn MoreMental Health Conditions
12.00Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorders.
Learn MoreHeart & Cardiovascular
4.00Chronic heart failure, coronary artery disease, arrhythmias, and peripheral arterial disease.
Learn MoreCancer
13.00Many cancers qualify during treatment. Compassionate Allowances for severe/terminal cancers.
Learn MoreRespiratory & Lung
3.00COPD, severe asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and cystic fibrosis.
Learn MoreAutoimmune Disorders
14.00Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, HIV, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Learn MoreNeurological Conditions
11.00Epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinsons disease, TBI, ALS, and cerebral palsy.
Learn MoreDiabetes & Endocrine
9.00Diabetes complications, thyroid disorders, adrenal gland conditions, and pituitary disorders.
Learn MoreKidney Disease
6.00Chronic kidney disease, dialysis, kidney transplant, and nephrotic syndrome.
Learn MoreMusculoskeletal
1.00Arthritis, joint replacements, fractures, amputations, and fibromyalgia.
Learn MoreVision & Hearing Loss
2.00Statutory blindness, visual field loss, hearing loss, and cochlear implant evaluations.
Learn MoreChronic Pain & Fibromyalgia
RFC EvaluationNo specific listing — evaluated through Residual Functional Capacity assessment.
Learn MoreDon't See Your Condition?
Even if your specific condition isn't listed above, you may still qualify for disability benefits. The SSA can evaluate any condition through a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment that examines how your condition limits your ability to perform work activities. Get a free claim review to discuss your situation.
Not Sure If You Qualify?
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