Common Disabilities That Qualify for SSDI

Introduction

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can be overwhelming — especially if you're unsure whether your condition qualifies. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a strict definition of disability, and not every medical issue is eligible for benefits.

In this post, we’ll walk through some of the most common disabilities that meet SSDI criteria, based on how frequently they appear in approved claims.

1. Musculoskeletal Disorders

These are among the most frequently approved SSDI conditions. They affect your bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons — often making physical work impossible.

Examples:

• Chronic back pain or spinal disorders

• Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

• Fibromyalgia

• Joint dysfunction or major limb injuries

  
  

2. Mental Health Disorders

Mental illness can severely impact a person’s ability to work. The SSA recognizes many psychiatric and neurodevelopmental conditions under SSDI.

Examples:

• Major depressive disorder

• Generalized anxiety disorder

• Bipolar disorder

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

  
  

3. Cardiovascular Conditions

Heart-related illnesses are evaluated based on how much they limit your ability to perform physical activity or manage daily stress.

Examples:

• Congestive heart failure

• Coronary artery disease (CAD)

• Arrhythmias

• Post-heart attack complications

  
  

4. Neurological Disorders

These conditions affect the brain, spinal cord, or nerves and often come with long-term impairments.

Examples:

• Epilepsy (seizure disorders)

• Parkinson’s disease

• Multiple sclerosis (MS)

• Stroke complications

• Cerebral palsy

• 
  

5. Respiratory Diseases

SSDI also covers chronic lung conditions that limit oxygen flow and physical endurance.

Examples:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

• Asthma (severe, persistent cases)

• Pulmonary fibrosis

• Cystic fibrosis

  
  

6. Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases)

Certain cancers automatically qualify for SSDI under the SSA’s Compassionate Allowances program, especially if they are aggressive or in advanced stages.

Examples:

• Lung cancer

• Breast cancer

• Pancreatic cancer

• Lymphoma and leukemia

  
  

7. Immune System Disorders

Chronic immune-related diseases can weaken the body’s ability to function and fight off infections.

Examples:

• HIV/AIDS

• Lupus

• Rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune)

• Inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn’s)

  
  

SSDI Eligibility: It’s Not Just About the Diagnosis

It’s important to remember: having a diagnosis isn’t enough.

The SSA also considers:

• The severity and duration of your condition

• Your work history and recent earnings

• Whether you can perform any other type of work, not just your previous job

Even common disabilities may be denied if the SSA believes you can still perform substantial gainful activity.

Frequently Asked Questions About SSDI

1. What disabilities get approved most often for SSDI?

Conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system — like back injuries, arthritis, and joint issues — are some of the most commonly approved. These types of problems often make it hard to stand, lift, or sit for long periods, which can make holding a job very difficult.

2. Can mental health conditions like depression or anxiety qualify for benefits?

Yes, absolutely. Mental health conditions such as major depression, anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder can qualify you for SSDI — as long as your symptoms significantly affect your ability to work and are well-documented by a healthcare provider.

3. How long does it take to get SSDI approved?

The timeline can vary, but most initial decisions take 3 to 6 months. If your application is denied (which happens to many people at first), the appeals process can take several more months. Having support during this time can make all the difference.

4. What if my condition isn’t listed by the SSA?

The SSA has a “Blue Book” of listed conditions, but even if your exact diagnosis isn’t there, you could still qualify. The key is showing that your condition is severe enough to prevent you from working, with strong medical documentation to support it.

5. Do I really need a lawyer to apply for SSDI in Texas?

You don’t have to have a lawyer — but working with an experienced legal team can take the pressure off and improve your chances, especially if you’re denied and need to appeal. At Willis Disability Law, we walk you through the entire process and fight for your right to benefits.

Need Help? Let’s Talk.

If you're feeling lost, you're not alone — and you don’t have to go through the SSDI process by yourself.

At Willis Disability Law, we focus 100% on helping people with disabilities get the benefits they deserve. Whether you’re applying for the first time or facing a tough appeal, our experienced Social Security disability attorneys in East Texas are here for you.

As a trusted disability insurance law firm in Texas, we’ll help you understand your options, handle the paperwork, and guide you step by step.

Contact us today for a free consultation. Let’s talk about your case and how we can help.

Check our other post about: The Faces and Facts of Disability