1. Common Qualifying Conditions

Some of the most common conditions that qualify for SSDI include:

• Musculoskeletal disorders – such as severe back injuries, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, arthritis, or joint dysfunction that significantly limits mobility or function
• Neurological disorders – including epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy, and severe migraines
• Mental disorders – such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and autism spectrum disorder, if they severely limit your daily functioning
• Cardiovascular conditions – like chronic heart failure, coronary artery disease, or arrhythmias that impact your ability to perform basic work tasks
• Respiratory disorders – including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or pulmonary fibrosis with significant functional limitations
• Cancer – certain advanced cancers, those that are inoperable, or those with metastasis can qualify
• Immune system disorders – such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or HIV/AIDS when they limit your ability to work
• Digestive disorders – severe liver disease, Crohn’s disease, or inflammatory bowel disease with debilitating symptoms
• Endocrine disorders – such as uncontrolled diabetes with complications like neuropathy, vision loss, or kidney disease

2. Meeting SSA’s Criteria

Simply having a diagnosis is not enough to qualify for SSDI. You must provide:

• Medical evidence showing your condition meets or equals the SSA’s criteria in the Blue Book
• Proof that your condition prevents you from performing your past work or adjusting to other work based on your age, education, and skills
• Documentation of ongoing treatment, symptoms, and limitations that interfere with basic work activities

3. Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) Assessment

If your condition does not exactly match a listed impairment, SSA will assess your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) to determine what work, if any, you can still perform. Your RFC takes into account:

• Physical limitations – such as difficulty standing, walking, lifting, or sitting
• Mental and cognitive limitations – such as problems with concentration, following instructions, or interacting with others

Your doctor’s input on your RFC is crucial to demonstrate the full impact of your condition on your ability to work.

4. Multiple Conditions and Combined Effects

If you have multiple medical conditions, SSA considers their combined effect on your ability to work. Even if each condition alone is not disabling, together they may qualify you for benefits if they significantly limit your functioning.