Can You Qualify for SSD Benefits with a Neurological Condition?

Neurological conditions are structural, biochemical, or electrical disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, or nerves. These disorders can impair muscle control, coordination, sensation, movement, speech, memory, mood, and more. If a neurological condition prevents you from working, you may qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits.

At Hardison & Cochran, our experienced Social Security Disability attorneys serve clients across North Carolina. We can review your case for free and help you begin the disability benefits process today. To get started, call us or contact us online to request your free consultation.

Common Qualifying Neurological Conditions

Which neurological conditions often qualify for SSD benefits?

The SSA’s Blue Book includes specific criteria for 16 neurological conditions. Common qualifying conditions include:

  • Epilepsy – Type, frequency, and duration of seizures are considered.
  • Strokes – May affect speech, mobility, and motor control.
  • Brain tumors – Can cause seizures, headaches, memory or speech issues.
  • Parkinson’s disease – May interfere with muscle control and cause tremors.
  • Cerebral palsy – Impairs muscle function, tone, strength; may affect cognition.
  • Spinal cord or nerve root lesions – Can cause mobility and dexterity limitations.
  • Multiple sclerosis (MS) – Affects balance, vision, strength, coordination, and thinking.
  • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) – Progressive loss of muscle control, including breathing.
  • Myasthenia gravis – Causes muscle fatigue, difficulties swallowing, vision problems.
  • Muscular dystrophy – Causes progressive muscle weakening.

These conditions are individually listed in the SSA Blue Book, but many others may qualify if they produce similar levels of disability.

Can You Qualify for SSD Benefits with a Neurological Condition?neurological disorders

To obtain SSD benefits for a neurological disorder, you will need to demonstrate that your condition has caused you to be medically disabled and unable to hold a job.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the guidelines set forth in the “Blue Book” to help determine whether your disability is severe enough to qualify you for SSD benefits. The book provides specific criteria for 16 neurological conditions.

Your medical records would describe the symptoms of your neurological disorder and the disabilities you suffer from related to it. The SSA could still require you to undergo an additional medical exam to establish your abilities and disabilities.

Can You Qualify if Your Condition Isn’t Listed?

What if your neurological disorder is not in the Blue Book?

You may still qualify if:

  • You have a serious neurological condition not named in the listing.
  • You can show that your impairment medically equals the severity of a listed condition.
  • You also prove that your condition prevents you from holding any job.

Example: A rare degenerative neurological disease that impairs mobility and cognitive function may be considered medically equivalent to ALS or MS, even if not specifically listed.

At Hardison & Cochran, we regularly help clients gather necessary medical evidence and present persuasive arguments for equalization when the SSA does not list their condition by name.

Our North Carolina Lawyers Help Individuals Seek SSD Benefits for Neurological Conditions

At Hardison & Cochran, we have extensive experience handling claims through the Social Security Disability system and working with North Carolina Disability Determination Services (DDS). Our attorneys understand how DDS reviews medical evidence and what documentation is needed to strengthen your case.

Whether you are applying for the first time or appealing a denied claim, our team can:

  • Organize and present your medical records in a way that matches SSA criteria
  • Identify whether your condition meets or equals a Blue Book listing
  • Represent you in hearings and appeals if necessary

Our goal is to secure the SSD benefits you deserve as quickly as possible. To take the next step, contact us online and request your free case review today.