When an injury or illness makes it impossible to work and earn a living, the financial burden can be significant. Fortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers disability benefits to help those who have a physical impairment bring in a steady source of income. However, there are a number of rules and criteria an applicant must meet before they can start receiving a check. Here is an overview of the conditions that make someone eligible to get benefits. 

What Impairments Are Listed by the SSA?

The SSA maintains a listing—known as the Blue Book—of physical impairments that qualify for disability benefits. If an applicant’s condition is listed in the manual, they are automatically eligible to collect benefits as long as it will prevent them from performing any substantial work for at least 12 months.

The current listing has been updated to include the following impairments: 

• Musculoskeletal problems, such as back, muscle, and joint injuries.
• Cardiovascular conditions, such as congestive heart failure, atherosclerosis, and cardiomyopathy.
• Senses and speech issues, such as vision or hearing loss. 
• Respiratory ailments, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary fibrosis, lung cancer, and asthma.
• Digestive tract disorders, such as liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and ulcerative colitis.
• Kidney disease and genitourinary problems, such as kidney cancer, chronic renal failure, and organ damage due to diabetes or another medical condition.
• Neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and cerebral palsy.
• Immune system disorders, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and HIV/AIDS.

What if an Impairment Isn’t Listed? 

An applicant with a physical impairment not included in the Blue Book can still qualify for disability benefits if the SSA determines their condition is medically equal to a listed impairment. Additionally, a condition might qualify even if it’s bad enough to keep an applicant from working full time in any type of job. Essentially, the SSA will carefully assess each individual case, taking into consideration how a condition impacts a person’s ability to work and the evidence they have to support their claim.  

Although the list of qualifying physical impairments is extensive, proving a disability can be challenging. Many applicants are denied disability benefits despite meeting all of the requirements. This is why you should work with an experienced Social Security attorney if you plan to file a claim. David W. Kapor & Associates are committed to fighting for the rights of disabled clients and have helped numerous Cincinnati, OH, residents successfully navigate the application process. Whether you’re in the initial stage of trying to collect benefits or looking to submit an appeal after being denied, they will provide the guidance you need to prove your eligibility. Call (513) 721-2820 or visit them online for more information on their services.