EspañolIn this episode, Josh and Jeremy Worley explain one of the most misunderstood aspects of the Social Security Disability process — the belief that you can only be approved if your medical condition appears in the Social Security Listing of Impairments.
Josh breaks down what the listings are: a set of specific medical conditions and criteria that, if fully met, can lead to automatic approval. However, most people don’t fit perfectly into these listings because the requirements are so strict.
The good news? You don’t need to meet a listing to be approved. Many successful claims are approved based on the claimant’s day-to-day functional limitations, consistent medical treatment, and evidence showing that they cannot maintain full-time employment.
Myth Verdict
Busted. You don’t have to meet a Social Security Listing to be approved. Most successful disability claims are based on your documented limitations and consistent treatment, not a checklist.
Key Insights
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Listings defined: The “Listing of Impairments” is a detailed set of medical conditions that qualify for automatic approval if strict criteria are met.
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Few meet listings: The majority of claimants don’t meet these exact criteria, but can still be approved.
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Functional limits matter: Social Security looks at how your condition limits your ability to work full time.
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Documentation is key: Consistent medical treatment and detailed records are more important than fitting a listing.
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Automatic approval possible: If your medical evidence meets every listing requirement, you can qualify immediately — but that’s rare.
