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When you apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) because you're unable to work due to a serious health condition, the Social Security Administration (SSA) makes a determination as to whether you qualify for these benefits.
You must show that you've worked long enough to have the right number of work credits and that you're considered disabled under Social Security Administration laws. Disability may be a determination if you have a condition diagnosed by your doctor; you cannot perform your former job or any other job because of it, and it's expected to last for more than one year or lead to your death.
The SSA has a wide range of medical conditions and illnesses cataloged in its impairments listing, commonly called the Blue Book. The majority are defined as disabilities. If your medical condition is on this list, your Social Security disability claim will most likely be approved. However, you still may be entitled to benefits if your illness or medical condition isn't on this list.
How the SSA Determines Disabling Conditions for Its List of Impairments?
It would be impossible for the SSA Blue Book to list all medical conditions and illnesses that could present as a disability. Many conditions, such as diabetes, carpal tunnel syndrome, and fibromyalgia, aren't listed impairments. To show that you're disabled when your medical condition is not listed in the Blue Book, you must meet the SSA's definition of disability outlined above.
In addition, you must prove your condition is of equal severity to those listed in the book. The following general rules apply:
- Your health condition must be a medically-determinable impairment supported by clinical reports.
- Your medical condition must limit your residual functional ability—which is the most demanding activity that you can do given your medical condition—and your exertion level sufficiently enough that you are unable to perform your former job or any other form of work.
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