If you are unable to work due to a disability, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. However, having a mental or physical disorder does not automatically qualify you. An attorney can help you obtain medical evidence and guide you through the application process.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a Blue Book that organizes the top disabilities that qualify for SSDI into categories called listings. Keep in mind that even if your condition is not specifically mentioned in the listings, you could still qualify for benefits.
Contact us today to speak with an experienced Greenville Social Security disability lawyer, or keep reading for a brief overview of the disability categories.
Connective Tissue and Musculoskeletal Disorders
Musculoskeletal system and connective tissue disorders can be acquired, or a person can be born with them. These disorders involve bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, or other soft tissues.
These issues can limit mobility to varying degrees, and must meet certain criteria to qualify as a disability.
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Special Senses and Speech
The special senses and speech category includes things like blindness, statutory blindness, hearing loss, and an inability to speak.
While these limitations are widely considered disabilities, many careers are still possible for affected individuals, and the SSA has screening and documentation requirements for each disorder.
One of our experienced attorneys can help you obtain the necessary information that documents your medical and vocational history.
Respiratory Disorders
Respiratory disorders refer to conditions that make it difficult to move air in or out of the lungs or that interfere with gas exchange across cell membranes. Examples include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Pulmonary fibrosis and pneumoconiosis
- Asthma
- Cystic fibrosis
- Bronchiectasis
- Chronic pulmonary hypertension
- Lung transplantation
- Respiratory failure
Although breathing problems are often serious, you must still meet certain criteria and avoid making mistakes during the application process.
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Cardiovascular System
Cardiovascular issues encompass any condition that affects heart or circulatory system function. The disorders can be acquired or congenital. While heart failure is usually a qualifying condition, not all cardiovascular issues lead to approval.
For instance, receiving treatment for a heart condition, such as stents or bypass surgery after a heart attack, does not automatically entitle you to SSDI benefits. That said, these cases are complex, and you are more likely to qualify if you are over 50.
As with other potentially disabling conditions, certain criteria must be met for a person to obtain benefits.
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Digestive Disorders
The SSA considers various digestive disorders that affect the pancreas, liver, and gastrointestinal tract in a serious way.
As with other conditions we’ve mentioned, you will need to show that the disorder prevents you from working.
Genitourinary Disorders
The SSA evaluates genitourinary disorders that cause chronic kidney disease. Examples include various types of nephropathy, glomerulonephritis, and chronic obstructive uropathy.
These conditions can be time-consuming to manage, which is something we could help you document.
Hematological Disorders
The SSA considers non-cancerous hematological disorders like thrombosis, hemolytic anemias, thrombosis, and bone marrow failure disorders to be potentially disabling.
These conditions disrupt the production and function of red and white blood cells, platelets, and clotting factors. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may be unable to work.
Skin Disorders
This category includes skin disorders that result from hereditary or acquired processes. Examples include, but are not limited to, severe burns, psoriasis, and hidradenitis suppurativa.
Minor skin disorders may not qualify for SSDI, but an attorney can help you establish the severity of your condition.
Endocrine Disorders
Endocrine disorders cause hormonal imbalances in the body, leading to various complications. Issues with the endocrine system could involve the thyroid, parathyroid, pituitary, pancreas, and adrenals.
It all comes down to documenting your symptoms and how they affect your day-to-day life and ability to work.
Congenital Disorders that Affect Multiple Body Systems
This category includes chromosomal differences such as Down syndrome but does not include non-mosaic Down syndrome.
Since congenital means something a person is born with, many adults with these qualifying conditions are already receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Neurological Disorders
These disorders encompass a wide range of conditions affecting the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. They can have a profound impact on a person’s daily life and functioning.
The SSA also evaluates a wide range of serious neurological disorders, such as:
- Epilepsy
- Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease
- Communication impairments
- Various conditions that affect a combination of physical and mental functioning
Even if your condition is not listed here, it may be in the SSA Blue Book, as this overview is not exhaustive.
Mental Disorders
The SSA listings include several categories of mental disorders. Examples include
- Anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders
- Bipolar disorder
- Other mood disorders
- Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Neurodevelopmental disorders
- Anxiety and trauma-related disorders
These are just a few examples, as the SSA considers a wide range of mental health conditions.
Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases)
When evaluating claims involving cancer, the SSA considers several disease-related factors like tumor location, severity of involvement, and response to therapeutic interventions. Outcomes vary per individual based on cancer type, stage, treatment protocols, and complications.
Even the SSA Blue Book cannot list every potential condition. Whatever your disability, providing sufficient evidence of impaired daily living and the inability to sustain substantial employment is the key to securing benefits.
Free Consultation With a Social Security Disability Lawyer
At Pilzer Klein, Social Security Disability is all we do. Whether you need to apply for SSDI, are facing a hearing, or have received a denial, one of our Social Security Disability lawyers can evaluate your situation and guide you through your next steps. All new clients speak directly with an attorney.
Hiring professional legal representation can significantly increase your chances of approval, and we don’t charge for our services unless you get your benefits. Call us today or fill out the online contact form to get started with a free consultation.
Call or text 864-235-0234 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
