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Quick Answer
It can be hard to decipher the qualifying medical conditions for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. While many conditions can qualify, knowing the top 10 most common conditions can help you narrow down whether you can receive benefits. However, if you have a unique disease or disability, that does not necessarily mean you will not qualify.
While you can start the initial application process on your own, it is best to get help from a legal professional to assist you. The Social Security Administration (SSA) is known to frequently reject benefits for even qualified individuals. Getting a lawyer to help you file your application correctly and submit any appeals can help ensure that you can fight for the benefits you deserve.
At Pond Lehocky, our experienced attorneys know exactly what’s needed to make your disability case as strong—and as simple for you—as possible.
10 Most Common Medical Conditions that Qualify for Social Security Disability
Here is a list of the top 10 most common medical conditions for which the SSA approves SSD benefits.
Arthritis
Acute arthritis is extremely common amongst adults 40 and over. It can make it extremely debilitating or impossible to work for a living. For this reason, the SSA receives many applications from those with arthritis. In fact, it is one of the most commonly approved disabilities that qualify for the compassionate allowance program.
Cancer
Virtually all types of cancer qualify for SSD benefits. In many cases, depending on the severity of the cancer and what stage it is in, approval can be expedited. Both the cancer itself and side effects from treatment are considered on your application.
Heart Disease
Cardiovascular issues and heart diseases make life very difficult. These conditions make it very hard to do basic activities or any work for extended periods of time. If you have any heart or cardiovascular diseases, you may qualify for SSD benefits.
Blindness or Visual Disorders
There are two types of blindness covered by SSD benefits:
- Statutory Blindness – Where your vision is 20/200 or worse in your better eye with corrective lenses, or your visual field is 20 degrees or less in your better eye.
- Total Blindness – A complete loss of vision in both eyes.
The SSA has higher substantial gainful activity limits for blind or visually impaired individuals, has no age requirement, and is considered to be generally easier to qualify for compared to other conditions.
Diabetes
Diabetes on its own is not likely to qualify for SSD benefits. However, if your diabetes causes severe medical issues or complications that impact your ability to work, you may be able to qualify. Ultimately, the SSA will review your medical documentation and other documented supporting evidence.
Musculoskeletal Disorders
Back injuries, spinal cord issues, joint issues, herniated discs, etc., are all musculoskeletal disorders that commonly qualify for SSD benefits. Musculoskeletal disorders are a frequently cited reason for filing for disability. So long as you can demonstrate that your musculoskeletal disorder is severe enough to prevent work, you may qualify.
Immune System Disorders
Conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or having HIV/AIDS can cause symptoms like chronic fatigue, loss of concentration, pain, etc. All of these tend to hurt an individual’s working ability and ability to function independently. People living with immune system disorders often apply for SSD benefits.
Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Intellectual and developmental disabilities can qualify for SSD benefits depending on the severity. As with most of the other disorders, if an intellectual or developmental disability impedes the ability to work, it is possible to receive benefits.
Respiratory Disorders
Respiratory disorders such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can be grounds to qualify for SSD benefits. The SSA will evaluate your breathing and physical capacity before making a final decision on whether you can receive benefits.
Kidney Disorders
Kidney failure or chronic kidney disease that necessitates dialysis will almost always make sustained employment extremely difficult or simply impossible. Individuals on dialysis often apply for SSD benefits.
You Can Appeal Rejection
Remember, rejection is not the end of the world. Even individuals suffering from the common qualifying conditions above will likely get rejected on their initial application.
The SSA is very stringent with their application process, so do not get disheartened if their initial answer is no. You can always appeal their decision and follow up with the necessary evidence to fight for your benefits.
A Lawyer Can Help You Get the Benefits You Deserve
Retaining a lawyer to help you with the application process or your appeal is important. A lawyer will do much more than just file your paperwork. They will:
- Help you gather all of the medical evidence and other supporting documentation necessary for your application.
- Represent your best interests and provide you with the best solutions for your unique case.
- Ensure that you get the maximum amount of benefits you deserve, and the SSA does not take your condition or circumstances lightly.
Going through the SSD filing and appeals process alone can be very difficult. Having a lawyer by your side will be immensely helpful in ensuring you have the best chances for the benefits you deserve.
Get Help from One of Our Experienced Social Security Disability Lawyers Today
Pond Lehocky Disability has helped recover more than $1 billion in benefits for our clients. We have over 250 years of combined experience in the courtroom and are ready to help you file your claim or fight your appeal.
We offer a risk-free consultation at no cost to you. Do not hesitate to reach out to us today to learn more.