Understanding the SSA’s Criteria for Disability

The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a strict definition of disability. Your condition must:

• Be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
• Prevent you from doing any substantial gainful activity (SGA)
• Make it impossible for you to perform your past work or adjust to other work based on your age, education, and skills

SSA maintains a Listing of Impairments—also called the "Blue Book"—that outlines specific medical conditions that may automatically qualify if certain criteria are met.

Common Conditions That May Qualify in New Jersey

While the SSA evaluates each case individually, here are examples of physical and mental conditions that frequently qualify for SSDI or SSI:

Physical Conditions:

• Musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., chronic back pain, joint dysfunction, arthritis)
• Neurological disorders (e.g., multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, ALS)
• Cardiovascular conditions (e.g., heart failure, coronary artery disease)
• Respiratory disorders (e.g., COPD, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis)
• Cancer (especially aggressive or inoperable forms)
• Immune system disorders (e.g., lupus, HIV/AIDS)
• Endocrine disorders (e.g., diabetes with complications)

Mental Health Conditions:

• Depression and bipolar disorder
• Anxiety disorders, including panic disorder and PTSD
• Schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Intellectual disability
• Personality disorders

Meeting the exact SSA criteria for these conditions, supported by strong medical evidence, is essential to qualify.

What If Your Condition Is Not Listed?

Even if your condition is not in the SSA’s Blue Book, you may still qualify if:

• Your symptoms and limitations are equal in severity to a listed condition
• Your condition prevents you from doing any full-time work on a sustained basis

The key is providing detailed medical evidence that proves how your condition limits your ability to work.

Essential Medical Evidence for Your Disability Claim

To strengthen your case, make sure to include:

• Recent medical records and test results
• Statements from treating doctors about your limitations
• Specialist evaluations if applicable
• Hospital and therapy records
• A detailed description of how your condition affects your daily activities and job performance

The more specific and well-documented your evidence is, the better your chances of approval.