There are all kinds of disabilities that affect people. Those disabilities may range from neurological issues to issues with the musculoskeletal system or other devastating medical problems.
It’s important for you to note that many of the disabilities that could qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance will be listed in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book, but not all of them. If the disability you’re struggling with isn’t listed, you may still be able to qualify for SSDI.
Understanding the SSDI Blue Book
The Social Security Administration’s Blue Book has two sections, Part A and Part B. Part A is for adults with disabilities and children under 18 with disabilities that have similar processes in adults.
In the Blue Book, you’ll find 14 categories. Those include:
- Musculoskeletal disorders
- Special senses and speech
- Respiratory disorders
- Cardiovascular system
- Digestive system
- Genitourinary disorders
- Hematological disorders
- Skin disorders
- Endocrine disorders
- Congenital disorders affecting multiple body systems
- Neurological disorders
- Mental disorders
- Cancer (malignant neoplastic diseases)
- Immune system disorders
The illness or injury that you are dealing with will be found, in most cases, in one of these categories. For example, adrenal gland disorders and diabetes can be found in the endocrine section.
When you look at the specific disease or injury that you’d like to claim disability coverage for, there will be a paragraph, or a few paragraphs, of information on what it takes to qualify for disability with that illness or injury. For example, someone with a neurological disorder needs to show a marked limitation in physical functioning or mental functioning as a part of the qualification process.
If your disability is not listed in the Blue Book, you can still apply for coverage. This will be more complex than a standard application, so it’s a good idea to look closely into your rights and responsibilities when making that claim.
If you are denied the coverage that you need, you may need to appeal. Understanding the appeals process and how to get your claim approved is the next step to take.