Blue Book (SSA Listing of Impairments)
The Social Security Administration's official reference guide that lists medical conditions automatically considered severe enough to qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits if specific criteria are met.
Conditions are organized by body system (e.g., musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiovascular). Meeting a listing provides the fastest path to approval — your claim may be approved at the initial stage. If your condition is not in the Blue Book or does not meet its criteria, you may still qualify through a 'medical-vocational' analysis (RFC).
→ BenefitKarma's SSDI Filing Success Score uses Blue Book criteria to help estimate your claim strength.
Also known as
Related terms
- RFC
SSA's assessment of the maximum amount of work-related physical and mental activity a person can do consistently over a full workday despite their impairments, used when a claimant does not meet a Blue Book listing.
- SSI
A federal needs-based program administered by the SSA that provides monthly cash payments to adults and children with disabilities or blindness, and to adults 65+, who have limited income and resources.
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Frequently asked questions about Blue Book (SSA Listing of Impairments)
What is the Blue Book (SSA Listing of Impairments)?+
The Blue Book is the Social Security Administration's official list of medical conditions. It helps decide if your health problem is serious enough to get disability benefits. If your condition matches one on the list and you meet the rules, you might be able to get SSDI or SSI faster.
Who can get benefits through the Blue Book?+
You can get disability benefits through the Blue Book if your medical condition is on the list. You also need to meet all the specific rules for that condition. These rules describe how severe your condition must be and what medical proof you need to show.
How do I use the Blue Book for my SSDI application?+
When you apply for SSDI, the Social Security Administration will look at your medical records. They will see if your condition meets the rules in the Blue Book. If it does, and you have enough medical proof, it makes it easier to get approved for benefits.
What if my condition isn't in the Blue Book?+
Even if your condition isn't in the Blue Book, you might still get SSDI. The Social Security Administration will then look at how your condition affects your ability to work. They decide if your health problem stops you from doing any kind of job full-time.