Disabled Americans have a right to apply for monthly Social Security Disability Disability Benefits (SSDI). Americans with qualifying disabilities are entitled to federal payments that assist with their living costs. Americans who have suffered an injury or disability may be concerned about how they will continue to provide for their families.

The requirements for qualifying for social security benefits can be stringent, however. The application process can also be daunting, especially for those suffering from an injury or disability A skilled disability insurance attorney can help someone determine whether or not they qualify for disability benefits.

Which Conditions Qualify for Social Security Disability Payments

The Social Security Administration’s manual or blue book lists the specific impairments that qualify an individual for Social Security benefits or Supplemental Security Income. The manual specifically includes the following medical conditions:

  • Cardiovascular conditions such as coronary artery disease or heart failure
  • Musculoskeletal problems such as back injuries or foot deformities
  • Speech issues
  • Vision and hearing loss
  • Hematological disorders such as anemia and bone marrow failure
  • Cancer
  • Genitourinary problems
  • Kidney disease
  • Skin disorders
  • Genetic syndromes
  • Aids/HIV
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Developmental disabilities
  • Schizophrenia
  • Autism
  • Anxiety
  • Depression

If you have any of the medical conditions listed, you may be entitled to financial compensation. File your free claim today.

Does a Medical Condition Need to be Listed in the SSA Manual to Qualify?

No, a medical condition does not have to be explicitly listed in the manual for an applicant to receive Social Security Disability Insurance payments. The SSA evaluates the severity of the applicant's condition when determining whether or not to award SSDI. For example, migraines are not specifically mentioned in the manual. Yet, if a claimant's migraines are well-documented and severe enough to prevent the claimant from working full-time, the SSA might choose to award benefits.

The SSA considers the effect of the claimant’s condition on his or her ability to function. If the medical condition prevents the claimant from working and performing routine daily activities, the claimant is more likely to receive compensation. The SSA considers whether or not the claimant could be reasonably expected to find employment that he or she could do on a daily basis.

Common Medical Conditions Not Listed in the SSA’s Manual

A claimant’s medical condition must be a medically determinable impairment that reduces someone’s residual functional capacity enough to make holding down a full-time job impossible. The SSA regularly awards Social Security Disability Insurance to claimants with conditions not listed in the manual, including:

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Chronic regional pain syndrome
  • Reflex sympathetic dystrophy
  • Celiac disease
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Migraines

Applicants Must Have Worked for a Minimum Amount of Time to Qualify for SSDI

Only applicants who have worked a minimum amount of time and paid into the Social Security System may receive Social Security Disability Insurance. The SSA also offers a means-based program for those with limited resources and income. Applicants should make sure that they are applying for the correct Social Security Disability Insurance programs. Speaking to a skilled social security disability attorney can help you determine the best way to apply for disability benefits.