SSA’s Definition of Disability for SSI

To be considered disabled under SSI, your condition must:

• Be medically determinable and diagnosed by a licensed professional
• Be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death
• Prevent you from working or engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA)

Unlike SSDI, SSI does not require a work history, but it does have strict financial limits on income and assets.

Common Conditions That Qualify for SSI

The SSA maintains a Listing of Impairments—also called the Blue Book—which outlines conditions that may automatically qualify for benefits if certain criteria are met.

Some of the most common conditions that qualify for SSI include:

• Musculoskeletal Disorders: Severe back injuries, arthritis, joint disorders
• Neurological Disorders: Epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy
• Mental Health Conditions: Depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, autism
• Respiratory Conditions: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, cystic fibrosis
• Cardiovascular Disorders: Heart failure, coronary artery disease, arrhythmias
• Cancer: Certain types of aggressive or advanced cancers
• Digestive System Disorders: Crohn’s disease, liver disease, chronic pancreatitis
• Immune System Disorders: Lupus, HIV/AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis

If your condition is not listed but is equally severe to one that is, you may still qualify.

Proving That Your Condition Qualifies

Having a diagnosis isn’t enough—you must provide strong medical documentation showing how your condition affects your ability to function.

Important documentation includes:

• Medical records and test results
• Treatment history and compliance with prescribed care
• Statements from your doctors explaining your limitations
• Psychological evaluations, if applicable

The SSA needs to see how your condition limits your daily activities and prevents you from working.

SSI Is Also Based on Financial Need

In addition to a qualifying disability, you must meet strict financial eligibility rules:

• Income limits: Countable income must be below the federal benefit rate (subject to change annually)
• Asset limits: Individuals must have less than $2,000 in countable assets ($3,000 for couples)

Some income and assets (like your home or one vehicle) may be excluded from consideration.

Special Considerations for Children and Seniors

• Children with severe physical or mental impairments may qualify for SSI if their parents meet financial guidelines.
• Adults over age 65 can receive SSI without being disabled if they meet income and asset requirements.