SSA’s Definition of Disability

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your condition must:

• Be medically determinable through clinical evidence
• Prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (work)
• Last (or be expected to last) at least 12 months or result in death

The SSA evaluates your condition using a five-step process and a Listing of Impairments—often referred to as the "Blue Book."

Common Conditions That Qualify for Disability

Here are categories of conditions that often meet SSA requirements:

• Musculoskeletal Disorders: Back injuries, degenerative disc disease, joint disorders, severe arthritis
• Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy, multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Mental Disorders: Depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder
• Cardiovascular Conditions: Congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, chronic heart failure
• Respiratory Disorders: COPD, asthma, cystic fibrosis, pulmonary fibrosis
• Immune System Disorders: Lupus, HIV/AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis
• Digestive System Disorders: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, liver disease
• Cancer: Certain types and stages of cancer may qualify automatically under the SSA’s compassionate allowances

Your condition does not have to be on the official SSA list to qualify—if it severely limits your ability to work and can be supported by medical documentation, you may still be eligible.

How to Prove Your Condition Qualifies

To strengthen your claim:

• Provide detailed medical records and test results
• Show consistent treatment history from licensed professionals
• Include statements from doctors outlining how your condition affects your ability to work
• Document your limitations in daily activities, mobility, or cognitive function

Living with Multiple Conditions

You can also qualify based on a combination of impairments. If multiple health issues together prevent you from working, the SSA will consider the overall impact on your ability to function.