DISABILITIES THAT QUALIFY YOU FOR SSD

A wide range of qualifying disabilities can make you eligible for Social Security Disability benefits (SSD benefits). If you live in Virginia or the surrounding states and are unable to work due to a serious medical condition, you may be wondering if that condition will qualify you for monthly disability payments. Understanding which disabilities qualify – and why – is a crucial step in securing the support you need.

Social Security Disability benefits exist to help those who can no longer earn a living because of health problems. But not every health issue meets the strict criteria set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The key is proving that your medical condition is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least a year. In this comprehensive guide, we explain what counts as a qualifying disability, provide examples of conditions that often qualify for disability benefits, and offer insights on how to strengthen your claim.

Whether you’re dealing with a physical illness like a heart condition or a mental health challenge such as severe depression, this article will walk you through how Social Security determines if you are “disabled” under their rules. We’ll also cover what to do if your condition isn’t specifically listed by the SSA, and how to avoid common pitfalls that cause many first-time claims to be denied. Our goal is to arm you with knowledge so you can approach the disability benefits process confidently and get the financial relief you deserve.

For more information or to retain our assistance in securing your benefits, call Harbison & Kavanagh today at (804) 888-8000 and receive a free consultation!

• The following conditions may quality you to receive SSD income:
• Multiple sclerosis
• Cancer
• HIV/AIDS
• Hepatitis
• Brain trauma
• Lupus
• Severe anemia
• Cerebral Palsy
• Lyme Disease
• Graves’ Disease
• Amputation or loss of limb
• Diabetes
• Cardiac conditions
• Full or partial paralysis

This is not a complete list, and many other conditions can also qualify you to receive benefits. An attorney will be able to analyze how your life has been impacted by your medical issues and advise you on the best evidence to submit in order to support your case to have it accepted quickly. Most cases are initially denied; we strive to prevent this from happening to you and further delaying your benefits.

What Are Qualifying Disabilities for SSD Benefits?

Before diving into specific medical conditions, it’s important to understand what makes a disability “qualifying” for Social Security purposes. Simply having a diagnosed condition isn’t enough. The Social Security Administration has a strict definition of disability. In general, you are considered to have a qualifying disability under SSA rules if:

• You cannot perform substantial work (“substantial gainful activity,” in SSA terms) because of your medical condition.

• You cannot do any of your previous jobs or adjust to other work due to your condition.

• Your condition is expected to last at least one year or result in death.

In other words, the SSA is looking at how severely your health issues limit your ability to work. This means short-term injuries or illnesses that improve in a few months typically do not qualify. You must be facing a long-term impairment that truly prevents you from maintaining gainful employment.

Summary: The SSA uses a five-step evaluation process to decide if someone has a qualifying disability. The infographic below illustrates these 5 key questions, which ask about your work activity, the severity of your condition, whether it matches an official listing of impairments, and whether you can do any past or other work.

The SSA’s Disability Criteria Explained

The Social Security Administration maintains an official Listing of Impairments (often called the “Blue Book”) of medical conditions that are considered severe enough to typically qualify a person for disability benefits. This list covers a wide array of illnesses and disorders affecting different body systems – from musculoskeletal problems and neurological disorders to respiratory illnesses and mental disorders. If your condition exactly matches the criteria in the SSA’s listing, it should automatically be considered a qualifying disability.

However, not being on the list doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. Many people qualify for SSD benefits with conditions that aren’t explicitly listed, as long as they can show that their impairment is of comparable severity to a listed condition. The SSA will look at your medical evidence to determine if your symptoms and limitations “equal” one of the listed disabilities. Additionally, they will assess whether your illness or injury prevents you from doing not only your most recent job, but any job that exists in the national economy given your skills and limitations. This is known as evaluating your residual functional capacity (RFC) and considering the overall job market for someone in your situation.

It’s also worth noting that to qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, you need to have a sufficient work history (meaning you’ve paid into Social Security through payroll taxes for a certain number of years). If you haven’t worked enough or recently enough – but you are medically disabled under the above criteria – you might still qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is a needs-based program. The medical standards for disability are the same for SSDI and SSI – the difference lies in the financial and work history requirements for each program.

Physical Disabilities and Illnesses That Qualify for SSD

Physical health problems make up a large portion of Social Security Disability claims. These include any medically determinable illness or injury that affects your body and limits your ability to work. From back injuries that cause chronic pain to systemic diseases that attack your organs, a variety of physical disabilities can qualify if they are severe. Below, we break down some major categories of physical conditions that often lead to approved disability claims, along with examples of each. Keep in mind this is not an exhaustive list – many other medical issues can also qualify if they meet the SSA’s standards.

Musculoskeletal Disorders and Mobility Impairments

Injuries and disorders affecting the bones, joints, muscles, and spine are among the most common causes of disability. Musculoskeletal problems can range from severe back and neck conditions to major joint issues in the hips, knees, or shoulders. For example, someone with degenerative disc disease or a serious spinal injury may experience chronic pain and nerve damage that makes standing or sitting for long periods impossible. Likewise, advanced arthritis (such as rheumatoid arthritis) can cause swelling and joint deformities that severely limit mobility and use of the hands.

Examples of musculoskeletal disabilities that often qualify include:

• Severe back or neck injuries – e.g. herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or spinal fractures causing nerve compression.

• Joint disorders – e.g. osteoarthritis in weight-bearing joints, debilitating rheumatoid arthritis in multiple joints.

• Limb amputations or loss of limb use – the loss of an arm or leg (or losing function due to paralysis) that prevents effective ambulation or handling of objects.

• Traumatic orthopedic injuries – such as complicated fractures that do not heal properly or severe injuries requiring multiple surgeries.

• Chronic pain disorders – if well-documented, conditions like complex regional pain syndrome or chronic back pain can qualify when they drastically reduce functional abilities.

These conditions qualify as disabilities when they result in an inability to walk effectively, perform fine motor tasks, lift items, or otherwise carry out basic work activities. Documentation from orthopedic specialists, imaging results (X-rays, MRIs), and evidence of continued pain despite treatment will strengthen such a claim.

Neurological Disorders

The nervous system controls every function of the body, and serious disorders of the brain, spinal cord, or nerves can absolutely qualify as disabilities. Neurological disabilities often affect mobility, coordination, sensation, or even cognitive abilities. Many neurological conditions are progressive, meaning they worsen over time. A prime example is multiple sclerosis (MS) – an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the nervous system, leading to symptoms like fatigue, difficulty walking, and vision problems. Advanced MS often makes it impossible to sustain full-time work, especially if flare-ups are frequent. Other neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, which affects movement and muscle control, or epilepsy with uncontrolled frequent seizures, can also prevent consistent employment.

Traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries are additional examples – a brain trauma from an accident may cause memory loss or cognitive impairment, while a severe spinal cord injury can result in paralysis. Even less common nerve disorders may qualify. For instance, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is a hereditary neuropathy that causes muscle weakness and loss of sensation in the limbs. While not widely known, CMT can be disabling in its later stages. (If you are facing this condition, read our article on Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease and SSDI for an in-depth look at how it’s evaluated by Social Security.)

Examples of neurological conditions that often qualify:

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) – characterized by fatigue, balance problems, muscle weakness, etc., often with flare-ups and progression.

• Parkinson’s disease – neurological disorder causing tremors, rigidity, and movement difficulties.

• Epilepsy – frequent uncontrolled seizures despite treatment (e.g., several seizures per month).

• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) – also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disease.

• Traumatic brain injury resulting in cognitive or physical impairments (e.g., memory problems, difficulty concentrating, or motor function loss).

• Neuropathy or nerve damage that severely limits use of extremities (for example, peripheral neuropathy causing inability to stand or use hands).

• Spinal cord injuries causing partial or full paralysis (paraplegia, quadriplegia).

Neurological disabilities are evaluated by the SSA based on specific criteria for each condition (for example, MS has a listing involving motor function or vision issues; epilepsy has a listing based on frequency and type of seizures, etc.). It’s crucial to provide detailed neurological exams, MRI/CT scan results, and reports from neurologists documenting how your condition limits you day-to-day.

Cardiovascular and Respiratory Conditions

Heart and lung diseases can severely limit a person’s capacity to work, especially in jobs that require any physical activity. Cardiovascular disabilities involve the heart or circulatory system, such as advanced heart failure, coronary artery disease with frequent angina, or uncontrolled arrhythmias. Someone with serious heart disease might experience shortness of breath, chest pain, or fatigue even at rest or with minimal exertion, making it unsafe or impossible to maintain employment. If you have undergone major procedures like heart bypass surgery or have chronic conditions like congestive heart failure, the SSA will consider symptoms like how easily you become exhausted or if you have to elevate your legs due to severe swelling.

On the respiratory side, lung diseases can be equally disabling. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis, or severe uncontrolled asthma can all drastically reduce lung function. People with these conditions may not be able to walk even short distances without stopping for breath, let alone perform strenuous activities. The SSA’s listings include specific measurements (like very low breathing capacity on pulmonary function tests) to gauge the severity of respiratory impairments.

Examples of heart and lung conditions that may qualify:

• Congestive heart failure – with symptoms even at rest or on slight exertion (e.g., shortness of breath, swelling, fatigue).

• Coronary artery disease or history of heart attacks – causing ongoing angina (chest pain) or requiring interventions like bypass surgery.

• Arrhythmias – heart rhythm disorders (like uncontrolled atrial fibrillation or recurrent ventricular tachycardia) that cause fainting or severe limitations despite treatment.

• Peripheral arterial disease – severe blockages in blood vessels of the limbs, leading to pain and inability to walk more than a short distance.

• Chronic lung diseases – such as COPD, emphysema, or pulmonary fibrosis with very low lung function on tests.

• Severe asthma – frequent acute attacks or continuous symptoms despite medication, often requiring ER visits or hospital stays.

• Pulmonary hypertension – high blood pressure in the lungs causing dizziness, chest pain, and exercise intolerance.

Medical evidence for these conditions often includes cardiology reports (e.g. echocardiograms, EKGs, stress test results) for heart issues and pulmonary function tests or blood oxygen level reports for lung issues. If your cardiovascular or respiratory condition leaves you out of breath or fatigued after minimal activity, it likely meets the level of severity SSA requires for a qualifying disability.

Chronic Illnesses and Organ Disorders

Many chronic diseases affecting major organs or body systems can qualify as disabilities, especially when they reach end-stage or require intensive treatment. For instance, kidney disease is a common example – if your kidneys are failing and you require ongoing dialysis, the SSA considers that a qualifying disability (there is a specific listing for chronic kidney disease requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant). Similarly, liver disease such as advanced cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis can be disabling if it causes severe symptoms like fatigue, cognitive issues (from toxin buildup leading to encephalopathy), fluid build-up in the abdomen, or recurrent hospitalization for complications.

The digestive system can also be the source of qualifying illnesses. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can lead to frequent bouts of diarrhea, abdominal pain, hospitalizations, unintentional weight loss, and an inability to maintain nutrition or work regularly. People with severe Crohn’s may require multiple surgeries and still suffer debilitating symptoms that make full-time work impossible. Chronic pancreatitis or uncontrolled diabetes with serious complications (such as neuropathy, amputations, or significant vision loss) are additional examples of chronic conditions that can qualify, given their impact on daily functioning.

Other organ system disorders that often lead to disability include:

• End-stage renal disease (ESRD) – kidney failure requiring dialysis several times a week or awaiting a transplant.

• Liver failure or severe cirrhosis – with complications like ascites (fluid in the abdomen), hepatic encephalopathy (mental confusion due to liver toxins), or frequent variceal bleeding.

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease – e.g., Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis causing persistent diarrhea, bleeding, and weight loss despite treatment.

• Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus – especially if it results in diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage in hands/feet affecting use), diabetic retinopathy (serious vision impairment), or chronic non-healing ulcers.

• Chronic pancreatitis – causing constant severe pain and inability to maintain adequate nutrition or weight.

• Severe migraines or chronic headaches – in rare cases, if documented to cause frequent incapacitating episodes despite treatment (these would need to be very extreme cases).

Each of these conditions is evaluated on specific medical benchmarks. For example, kidney disease claims will include lab values for kidney function (creatinine, eGFR levels) and dialysis reports; IBD claims might include colonoscopy results or pathology reports. The critical factor is demonstrating that despite treatment, your chronic illness continues to produce severe, ongoing symptoms that disrupt any work routine.

Cancer (Malignant Diseases)

A cancer diagnosis can be life-changing, and many forms of cancer will qualify as disabilities – particularly when the cancer is advanced or aggressive. The SSA’s criteria for cancer (called “malignant neoplastic diseases” in the listings) depend on factors like the type of cancer, its stage, how it’s responding to treatment, and whether it has spread (metastasized). Generally, cancers that are Stage III or Stage IV, recurrent after initial treatment, or inoperable will meet the criteria. For instance, breast cancer or lung cancer that has spread to other organs would qualify. Leukemia (a cancer of the blood) and lymphoma can qualify during active treatment phases or for a period of time after treatments like bone marrow transplants. Even cancers that go into remission may qualify for a time if the treatment effects are debilitating (e.g., continuing weakness and susceptibility to infection after chemotherapy).

Some aggressive cancers are part of the SSA’s Compassionate Allowances program, meaning they are fast-tracked for approval due to their severity. Examples include pancreatic cancer, inflammatory breast cancer, certain malignant brain tumors, and small-cell lung cancer – these diagnoses are so serious that the SSA will often approve benefits with minimal delay once the diagnosis is confirmed by medical records.

When applying for disability due to cancer, it’s important to provide pathology reports, oncology notes, and documentation of how the cancer (or the side effects of treatment like chemotherapy and radiation) affect your daily functioning. Many cancers not explicitly listed can still qualify if, for example, the treatments cause severe fatigue, nausea, and weakness that prevent you from working for at least 12 months.

Immune System and Blood Disorders

The immune system and blood-related conditions are another category that can result in qualifying disabilities. Immune system disorders often involve the body attacking itself or failing to defend against illness. A well-known example is lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus), an autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs and cause chronic fatigue, joint pain, organ damage, and other severe symptoms. If lupus causes significant kidney damage (lupus nephritis) or frequent flares that incapacitate you, it likely meets SSA’s disability criteria. Rheumatoid arthritis, mentioned earlier, is also an autoimmune condition (affecting the joints) that may be evaluated under the immune system listings when severe.

Another immune-related condition is HIV/AIDS. Thanks to medical advancements, many individuals with HIV can live and work for years. However, if HIV has progressed to AIDS or is not responding well to treatment – leading to severe weight loss, chronic infections, or certain cancers – it may qualify for disability. The SSA will look at complications like frequent hospitalizations for opportunistic infections (e.g. recurrent pneumonia, tuberculosis) or very low CD4 immune cell counts to determine eligibility.

Blood disorders such as severe anemia (very low red blood cell counts) can also be disabling. For instance, chronic aplastic anemia might cause extreme weakness and require frequent blood transfusions, making it hard to maintain a job. Sickle cell disease is another hereditary blood disorder that can qualify, especially if it causes frequent painful crises, organ damage, or requires repeated hospital stays.

Other examples in this category:

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus) – especially with organ involvement like kidneys, heart, or lungs.

• HIV/AIDS – with recurrent infections, neurological complications, or certain HIV-associated cancers (e.g. Kaposi’s sarcoma).

• Chronic anemia or bone marrow disorders – e.g. aplastic anemia or myelodysplastic syndromes requiring transfusions.

• Sickle cell anemia – with frequent vaso-occlusive crises, chronic pain, or organ complications.

• Immune deficiencies – congenital or acquired conditions that leave you susceptible to life-threatening infections.

• Vasculitis or other autoimmune diseases – if they cause significant organ damage or function loss (e.g., severe rheumatoid arthritis deforming joints, or vasculitis causing neuropathy).

• Thyroid and endocrine disorders – certain cases like uncontrolled Graves’ disease (autoimmune hyperthyroidism) or Addison’s disease could qualify if they cause severe metabolic disturbances or heart issues despite treatment.

When claiming disability for immune or blood disorders, detailed lab results (such as immune cell counts, autoantibody tests, or blood hemoglobin levels) and records from specialists (like rheumatologists or hematologists) are key. These conditions often have periods of remission and flare-up, so it’s important to document the frequency and severity of episodes. Showing that, despite appropriate treatment, you continue to experience serious symptoms will be essential to get approved.

Sensory Impairments (Vision and Hearing)

Disabilities that affect the senses – particularly vision and hearing – can obviously interfere with many types of work. The SSA has specific definitions for vision and hearing loss when evaluating disability claims. For vision, someone is considered “legally blind” (for disability purposes) if their best-corrected visual acuity is 20/200 or worse in the better eye, or if they have a very limited visual field (20 degrees or less). You don’t necessarily have to be totally blind to qualify; significant vision impairments like advanced glaucoma, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy might qualify if your remaining vision falls under those thresholds. Loss of sight not only limits jobs that require reading or driving but can also pose safety issues in many workplaces.

Similarly, hearing loss can be a qualifying disability. Individuals with profound hearing loss or deafness, even with hearing aids or cochlear implants, can struggle to communicate or respond to auditory cues in a work environment. The SSA will consider the results of specialized hearing tests (audiometry) and whether you use assistive devices. If you cannot hear and understand normal speech (even with amplification devices), you may meet the criteria for disability. In some cases, inner ear disorders that affect balance and hearing – like severe Meniere’s disease or chronic vertigo – can also be evaluated in this category.

Examples of sensory impairments that often qualify:

• Legal blindness – very limited vision as defined above (e.g., only light perception or 20/200 vision with best correction).

• Severe vision loss from conditions like retinitis pigmentosa, advanced macular degeneration, or diabetic eye disease.

• Profound hearing loss in both ears – where even with hearing aids, the person cannot understand spoken words well enough to work.

• Deafness (especially from early age or without effective cochlear implants) that significantly affects communication.

• Meniere’s disease or chronic vestibular disorders – causing frequent episodes of vertigo, balance loss, and hearing fluctuation, despite treatment.

For sensory-related claims, medical evidence might include visual acuity tests, visual field test results, or audiology (hearing) test reports. The SSA may also consider how well you can navigate or communicate despite your impairment. (Notably, people who are legally blind have some different rules – for example, a higher allowable earnings limit – but they still must show their vision prevents them from engaging in competitive work on a sustained basis.) In any case, demonstrating the practical limitations caused by vision or hearing loss in daily life and work scenarios is the key to approval.

Mental Health Conditions That Qualify for Disability

Mental and psychological conditions can be just as disabling as physical ones. The Social Security Administration recognizes a wide range of mental health disorders as potentially qualifying disabilities. These include illnesses that affect your mood, thinking, behavior, and ability to relate to others. To qualify, a mental disorder usually must be severe enough that it markedly limits your daily functioning or social interactions, or causes frequent episodes of decompensation that disrupt your routine. Importantly, mental health claims require thorough documentation – medical records from psychiatrists or psychologists, therapy notes, and often detailed reports or questionnaires about how your condition affects your ability to function day-to-day.

Some people are hesitant to pursue disability for mental health issues due to stigma or the misconception that these issues are “less real” than physical ailments. In reality, conditions like severe depression or schizophrenia can be completely debilitating. The SSA’s disability listings include categories for various mental disorders, each with specific criteria (for example, listings for depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, neurocognitive disorders, etc., which often require showing certain symptoms and a certain level of functional limitation). Even if you don’t meet a listing exactly, you can still be found disabled if your mental condition prevents you from sustaining any type of full-time job. In the sections below, we explore some common types of mental health conditions seen in disability claims.

Mood and Anxiety Disorders

Mood disorders such as major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, as well as anxiety-related disorders (including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)), are among the most common mental health conditions on disability applications. When these conditions are severe, they can make regular employment impossible.

For example, Major Depressive Disorder can cause persistent low mood, profound lack of energy, sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, and even physical symptoms – to the point that a person might struggle to get out of bed or perform basic tasks most days. People with severe depression may find themselves unable to complete simple work duties or maintain a routine schedule, which clearly interferes with any job. Bipolar Disorder, on the other hand, involves extreme mood swings – from deep, immobilizing depression to manic episodes with impulsive behavior, racing thoughts, and little need for sleep. Unpredictable mood shifts and periods of instability can prevent a person from maintaining a consistent work schedule or interacting appropriately with coworkers and customers.

Anxiety and trauma-related disorders can be similarly debilitating. Someone with severe anxiety or panic disorder might experience frequent panic attacks, constant dread, and an inability to function in work-like settings (for instance, difficulty leaving the house or being around people). PTSD can cause intrusive flashbacks, hypervigilance, and irritability, which might be triggered unpredictably and make focusing on work tasks impossible, especially in certain environments. OCD, characterized by intrusive obsessive thoughts and repetitive compulsive behaviors, can consume so much time and mental energy that a normal workday is continuously interrupted by rituals or anxiety.

The SSA will look at how these conditions affect your “adaptive functioning” – things like your ability to concentrate and persist at tasks, handle social interactions, care for yourself, and manage routine changes or stress. Often, to qualify under the mental disorder listings, you need evidence of “marked” (serious) limitations in at least two of those areas (or one extreme limitation), or a documented history of the illness that includes episodes of decompensation. Medical evidence like psychiatric evaluations, records of hospitalizations, and treatment history (therapy notes, medications tried, etc.) will be crucial in proving the severity of a mood or anxiety disorder. Consistent treatment from mental health professionals bolsters your case, as it shows you have sought help and still struggle despite treatment.

Schizophrenia and Other Serious Mental Disorders

Certain mental conditions are characterized by profound cognitive or perceptual disturbances. Schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders (such as schizoaffective disorder) are prime examples. These illnesses can cause hallucinations (hearing voices or seeing things that aren’t there), delusions (fixed false beliefs), disorganized speech and behavior, and extreme difficulty distinguishing reality from imagination. Even with medication, many individuals with chronic schizophrenia have trouble with basic work functions – they might be unable to consistently communicate, follow instructions, or maintain concentration due to persistent symptoms. Social Security’s disability listing for schizophrenia requires symptoms like hallucinations or disorganized speech along with marked functional limitations or an inability to function outside a highly supportive environment. If you have a history of psychiatric hospitalizations or require supervised living arrangements, that is strong evidence of the illness’s severity and your inability to work independently.

Other mental conditions that can qualify include intellectual disability (previously called mental retardation) and certain developmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder, if they severely impede an adult’s functional capacities. Usually, if an individual’s IQ is extremely low (around 70 or below) or they cannot manage basic personal care without assistance, they would meet the disability criteria for intellectual disability. Autism in adults might qualify if it results in an inability to maintain appropriate social interactions or communicate effectively to the point that employment isn’t feasible, even in a sheltered setting.

Additionally, personality disorders or eating disorders in their most extreme forms might qualify, though these are less commonly approved. For instance, a personality disorder that causes frequent angry outbursts, paranoia, or inability to cooperate with others could make maintaining a job impossible. Or a severe eating disorder like anorexia could cause such physical weakness and psychological preoccupation that full-time work is untenable.

Summary: The following infographic highlights the broad spectrum of conditions – from physical illnesses to mental health disorders – that can be considered “qualifying disabilities” for SSD. It visually groups common examples (like heart disease, cancer, and depression) to show the range of health issues that Social Security covers when determining disability.

When pursuing a mental disability claim, one challenge is that symptoms can be “invisible.” That’s why consistent treatment is key. Seeing mental health professionals regularly and following prescribed therapies not only helps your health but also builds the record you need to show SSA how serious your condition is. (For more tips on navigating mental health claims, see our post on Mental Health SSD Claims, which offers guidance on presenting strong evidence for these cases.) By compiling thorough medical reports, personal statements, and even third-party observations (from family or caregivers who have seen your daily struggles), you can substantiate that your mental disorder is truly preventing you from working.

Building a Strong Disability Claim (Avoiding Denials)

Even if you have a qualifying disability, you still need to prove it to the SSA through a careful and thorough application. Unfortunately, around two-thirds of initial Social Security Disability claims are denied. The good news is that many of these denials can be prevented with proper preparation and attention to detail. Here are some key factors in building a strong claim and avoiding common pitfalls:

Common Reasons SSD Claims Get Denied

• Insufficient medical evidence: One of the top reasons claims are denied is a lack of thorough medical documentation. You might know you’re disabled, but you have to show the SSA by providing detailed doctors’ reports, test results (MRI scans, blood work, etc.), and treatment records. If your file doesn’t clearly demonstrate the severity of your condition and how it limits you, the claims examiner may not be convinced. It’s not enough to say “I’m in pain” – you need medical findings and physician notes that back it up.

• Condition not meeting duration or severity requirements: Some applicants file for relatively short-term issues or apply before they have a firm diagnosis. Remember, your impairment must last (or be expected to last) at least 12 consecutive months or result in death. If records suggest you’ll recover sooner, or if your condition is described as mild or moderate, a denial is likely. Similarly, if your condition is controlled with medication and causes only intermittent problems, SSA might decide it’s not severe enough (in the context of their rules) to prevent all work.

• Earning above allowed limits: Social Security has an income threshold for disability called the substantial gainful activity (SGA) limit. If you continue to work and earn more than that amount (approximately $1,470 per month in 2023 for non-blind individuals, a bit higher if you’re blind), it signals that you might not be fully disabled. Many claims are denied because the applicant was working too much while applying. It’s okay to have small odd jobs or disability-approved part-time work, but exceeding the SGA income level will typically disqualify you.

• Failure to follow treatment: If there’s evidence that you aren’t following your doctor’s prescribed treatments without a valid reason, SSA can deny the claim on the basis that your condition might improve if you adhered to treatment. For example, if a doctor recommended physical therapy or certain medications and you refused without explanation, an examiner might conclude your condition isn’t as disabling as it could be if treated. (There are exceptions – for instance, if you stopped treatment due to severe side effects or inability to afford care, those factors can be considered.)

• Paperwork mistakes or missed deadlines: The disability application process is complex, with many forms to complete and appointments to attend. Simple errors – like missing a form, incomplete answers, or not responding to SSA’s requests for additional information – can sink a claim. Likewise, if you miss an appeal deadline after a denial (60 days to appeal), you may have to start over from scratch. Organization and attention to detail are key; many applicants benefit from having a lawyer or advocate help keep track of all the requirements.

Summary: An infographic below lists the top reasons disability claims get denied and tips to avoid them – highlighting issues like lack of medical evidence, short-term conditions, earning above the allowed income, not following treatment plans, and paperwork errors.

How Legal Help Can Strengthen Your Case

Going through this process alone can be overwhelming. This is where an experienced disability attorney can make a huge difference. A lawyer who focuses on Social Security Disability knows exactly what the SSA is looking for in a successful claim. They can help you gather the best evidence – for instance, obtaining detailed statements from your doctors about your work-related limitations, or making sure you’ve undergone any medical tests that could support your case. They also ensure all paperwork is filled out correctly and submitted on time, avoiding the technical mistakes that commonly lead to denials.

If your initial application is denied (which, as we noted, is quite common), an attorney can guide you through the appeals process – from filing a Request for Reconsideration to representing you at a hearing before an administrative law judge. At a disability hearing, having a lawyer by your side is often critical; they will present your case, cross-examine the vocational or medical experts, and highlight the facts in your record that prove you meet Social Security’s definition of disabled.

Most importantly, a dedicated disability lawyer becomes your advocate in what can be a frustrating process. At Harbison & Kavanagh, we have handled thousands of disability cases in Virginia and beyond. There is very little we haven’t seen in terms of medical conditions or complex claim issues. Our depth of knowledge – honed through countless hearings and even federal court appeals – means we know how to navigate tough cases and build strong arguments on your behalf. We strive to prevent denials by getting it right the first time, but if a denial does happen, we’re prepared to fight for you through every level of appeal.

By working closely with an attorney and being proactive about your claim, you greatly increase your chances of success. Remember, qualifying for disability benefits is often a marathon, not a sprint. With patience, persistence, and the right support, you can secure the SSD benefits you need to support yourself and your family.

Dedicated Support for Virginia and Surrounding Areas

At Harbison & Kavanagh, we take pride in serving disability claimants throughout Virginia – from Richmond, Petersburg, and Charlottesville to Williamsburg, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and everywhere in between. We also assist clients in the surrounding regions who need help navigating Social Security Disability. No matter where you are in Virginia or neighboring states, our goal is to make the SSD process easier for you.

Dealing with a life-changing medical condition is challenging enough; you shouldn’t have to battle the Social Security Administration on your own. Let our experienced Virginia disability attorneys step in and guide you. We treat every client with compassion and dedication, because we know what’s at stake – your ability to secure income and maintain your quality of life.

If you believe you have a qualifying disability, there’s no need to hesitate. Reach out to us for personalized guidance on your claim. We offer free consultations, so you can contact us to discuss your situation with no obligation. We’ll evaluate your case, answer your questions, and outline the next steps toward getting your benefits. With Harbison & Kavanagh on your side, you gain a team of advocates committed to helping you obtain the Social Security Disability benefits you deserve. Remember, you don’t have to go through this journey alone – help is available, and we are just a call or click away to assist you.

We proudly serve Virginia, and residents of the surrounding states! Contact Harbison & Kavanagh today!