What SSDI medical requirements are in North Carolina?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 08/14/2025
Qualifying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in North Carolina depends heavily on whether your medical condition meets the standards set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). While work history is important, the SSA focuses on your medical eligibility to determine if you’re truly unable to work because of your condition.
Find out if you qualify for SSDI benefits. Pre-qualify in 60 seconds for up to $4,018 per month and 12 months back pay.
Please answer a few questions to help us determine your eligibility.
Understanding SSA’s Definition of Disability
To be considered disabled for SSDI, your condition must:
- Prevent you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA).
- Be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
- Be supported by strong, consistent medical evidence.
Conditions Listed in the SSA Blue Book
The SSA has an official guide called the Listing of Impairments (or “Blue Book”), which outlines medical conditions that typically qualify for disability. These include:
- Musculoskeletal disorders (spinal injuries, joint problems).
- Cardiovascular conditions (chronic heart failure, coronary artery disease).
- Neurological disorders (multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease).
- Mental health conditions (major depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD).
- Respiratory illnesses (COPD, severe asthma).
- Immune system disorders (lupus, HIV/AIDS).
If your condition is in the Blue Book and you meet the specific criteria, your claim has a higher chance of approval.
What If Your Condition Is Not Listed?
You can still qualify for SSDI if your condition is not in the Blue Book, as long as:
- Your medical records prove the condition is severe.
- It limits your ability to perform basic work activities.
- It is expected to last at least 12 months.
- A Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment shows you cannot work in your past jobs or adjust to other work.
Required Medical Evidence
When applying for SSDI in North Carolina, you will need:
- Detailed medical records from doctors, hospitals, and clinics.
- Test results such as MRIs, X-rays, blood work, and other diagnostics.
- Notes from specialists describing your symptoms and limitations.
- Proof of ongoing treatment and follow-up care.
Consultative Examinations (CEs)
If your records are incomplete, the SSA may require you to attend a Consultative Examination with an independent doctor. This exam helps verify the severity of your condition and is often a critical step in the approval process.
Tips for Meeting SSDI Medical Requirements
- Keep regular appointments with your healthcare providers.
- Follow all prescribed treatments.
- Keep a symptom journal to document daily limitations.
- Make sure your doctors clearly explain how your condition impacts your work ability.
How Hogan Smith Can Help
Hogan Smith provides targeted assistance to strengthen your medical evidence for an SSDI claim, including:
- Reviewing your medical records to ensure they meet SSA requirements.
- Coordinating with your doctors to provide strong statements about your limitations.
- Helping prepare for consultative exams so you know what to expect.
- Guiding you through appeals if your claim is denied due to insufficient medical proof.
Contact Hogan Smith Today
If you’re unsure whether your medical condition qualifies for SSDI in North Carolina, Hogan Smith can help you
evaluate your case for free and guide you in gathering the right evidence. With their experience, you can present a strong claim from the start and improve your chances of approval. Call today to get started.
Further Reading
Boost Your Chance of Being Approved
Get the Compensation You Deserve
Our experts have helped thousands like you get cash benefits.
How It Works
1
Briefly tell us about your case
2
Provide your contact information
3
Choose attorneys to contact you