If you’re thinking about applying for Social Security Disability, you probably have one big question: “Does my condition qualify for disability?”
You’re not alone — this is one of the first things people ask us at Collins Price. And it’s an important question because the Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict rules about who qualifies for SSDI and SSI benefits.
In this guide, we’ll break down what kinds of medical conditions can qualify you for disability, what the SSA looks for, and how to strengthen your claim so you have the best chance of getting approved.
Understanding Social Security Disability: The Basics
Before we get into the conditions, let’s cover the basics.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federal program that pays benefits to people who can’t work because of a medical condition that will last at least a year or is expected to result in death.
To qualify, you must:
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Have a medical condition that keeps you from doing substantial work.
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Have enough work credits from your job history.
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Show medical evidence that proves your condition is severe.
Does SSA Have a List of Qualifying Conditions?
Yes — SSA has something called the Blue Book. This is a big guide that lists medical conditions that may qualify for disability.
The Blue Book is divided into sections by body systems — like musculoskeletal (bones and joints), mental disorders, and immune system disorders.
Each section lists conditions and explains what medical evidence you need. But here’s the truth: You don’t have to match a listing exactly to qualify.
You can still win benefits if you prove your condition keeps you from working — even if it’s not specifically listed.
What Are Some Common Conditions That Qualify?
Here are some examples of conditions that often qualify for Social Security Disability:
1. Musculoskeletal Problems
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Back injuries
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Severe arthritis
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Joint replacements that limit your movement
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Spine disorders like herniated discs
2. Neurological Disorders
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Multiple sclerosis (MS)
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Epilepsy with frequent seizures
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Parkinson’s disease
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Stroke with lasting effects
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Peripheral neuropathy
3. Mental Health Conditions
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Depression that keeps you from daily tasks
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Bipolar disorder with severe episodes
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Anxiety disorders that stop you from leaving your home
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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
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Schizophrenia
4. Autoimmune Diseases
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Lupus
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Rheumatoid arthritis
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Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
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HIV/AIDS with complications
5. Respiratory Conditions
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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
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Severe asthma
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Cystic fibrosis
6. Cardiovascular Conditions
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Chronic heart failure
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Ischemic heart disease
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Arrhythmias with severe symptoms
7. Cancer
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Some aggressive or recurring cancers
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Cancers that have spread
What If My Condition Isn’t in the Blue Book?
Don’t panic if you don’t see your exact condition listed. Many people win benefits for conditions that aren’t specifically named.
In these cases, SSA looks at your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC). This is a way to measure how your health problem limits your daily life and ability to work.
For example, you might not meet the exact listing for back pain, but if your back problems make it impossible to lift boxes, stand for long, or bend over — and you can’t do any other work — you could still qualify.
What Makes a Condition “Severe”?
SSA doesn’t approve claims for minor illnesses or injuries. To qualify, your condition must:
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Last or be expected to last at least 12 months.
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Keep you from doing your old job.
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Keep you from switching to another job you could do.
For example, a broken leg probably won’t qualify on its own because it usually heals in less than a year. But if you have multiple injuries, nerve damage, or a condition that makes healing difficult, you may still qualify.
What Evidence Do You Need to Prove Your Condition?
No matter what condition you have, good medical evidence is key.
SSA wants to see:
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Medical records: Doctor notes, hospital stays, test results.
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Doctor’s opinions: Written statements about how your condition limits you.
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Treatment history: Showing you’ve tried to get better.
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Work history: Proving you can’t do your past jobs or any new jobs.
Why Do So Many People Get Denied?
Sadly, most first-time disability claims are denied — even for serious conditions. The top reasons are:
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Not enough medical proof.
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Not following up with treatment.
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Missing deadlines or paperwork.
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Not showing how your condition limits your work.
You can read more in our guide: Why Are Most People Denied for Disability?
How to Make Your Claim Stronger
Here are a few things you can do:
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Keep going to your doctor. Follow their advice.
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Collect medical records and keep them updated.
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Be honest and clear about how your condition affects you.
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Keep track of how you feel day-to-day.
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Work with an experienced disability lawyer.
How a Disability Lawyer Helps
Proving your condition qualifies isn’t easy. That’s why many people work with a lawyer.
A good SSDI lawyer will:
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Explain the rules in plain language.
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Help gather the right medical records.
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Work with your doctors for statements.
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File paperwork on time.
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Speak for you at hearings.
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Help you avoid mistakes that lead to denials.
At Collins Price, this is what we do every day.
Do I Need to Be Out of Work for a Year Before I Apply?
No! You don’t have to wait a whole year. You should apply as soon as you and your doctor know you can’t work for at least 12 months.
What If I’ve Been Denied?
If you’ve already been denied, don’t give up. Many people win at the appeal stage. But appeals have strict deadlines, so act fast.
Learn what to do next in our post: Denied Disability Benefits? Here’s How to Successfully Appeal Your SSDI Claim.
Next Steps: Get Help from Collins Price
If you’re asking, “Does my condition qualify for disability?” — we’re here to help.
Our Social Security Disability attorneys are local and focus only on Social Security Disability. We understand the rules, the paperwork, and the medical evidence you need.
We don’t charge anything upfront. We only get paid if you win — so there’s no risk to you.
Ready to Talk? Contact Collins Price for a free consultation.
We’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and help you feel less alone. Together, we can build the strongest case possible — so you can focus on your health, not the paperwork. If you’re living with a serious health condition, you shouldn’t have to fight alone to get the help you’ve earned.
At Collins Price, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Ready to see if you qualify? Contact us today and let’s get started.
