What conditions qualify for disability in California?
By Hogan Smith
Updated 06/05/2025
If you live in California and are unable to work due to a physical or mental condition, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). To be approved, your condition must meet the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) strict criteria for disability.
Find out if you qualify for SSDI benefits. Pre-qualify in 60 seconds for up to $4,018 per month and 12 months back pay.
Please answer a few questions to help us determine your eligibility.
Common Conditions That Qualify for Disability in California
The SSA maintains a Listing of Impairments, also known as the “Blue Book,” which outlines conditions that may qualify. Here are examples of qualifying conditions across several categories:
Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Severe back injuries or spinal disorders
- Joint dysfunction (e.g., hips, knees, shoulders)
- Amputations or fractures that fail to heal properly
Mental Health Disorders
- Major depressive disorder
- Bipolar disorder
- Schizophrenia
- Autism spectrum disorders
- Anxiety disorders, including PTSD
Neurological Disorders
- Epilepsy
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Parkinson’s disease
- Traumatic brain injury
Cardiovascular Conditions
- Chronic heart failure
- Coronary artery disease
- Arrhythmias or other serious heart conditions
Respiratory Disorders
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Asthma (severe and persistent)
- Cystic fibrosis
Immune System Disorders
- Lupus
- HIV/AIDS
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Other Qualifying Conditions
- Certain types of cancer (especially aggressive or advanced)
- End-stage renal disease
- Diabetes complications (e.g., neuropathy, vision loss)
Even if your condition isn’t explicitly listed, you may still qualify if your impairment is severe and prevents you from working for at least 12 months.
Proving Your Condition Qualifies
To get approved for benefits, you’ll need:
- Detailed medical records including diagnoses, lab results, and doctor’s notes
- Consistent treatment history showing that you're following prescribed care
- Documentation of functional limitations that affect your ability to work
How Hogan Smith Can Help
At Hogan Smith, we help California residents identify whether their condition meets SSA standards and guide them through the disability process. We offer:
- Help determining if your condition qualifies
- Assistance gathering strong medical documentation
- Application support to reduce delays and avoid errors
- Appeals representation if your claim is denied
Contact Hogan Smith Today
Not sure if your condition qualifies for disability in California? Reach out to Hogan Smith for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your options and support you at every step of the process.
Further Reading
Boost Your Chance of Being Approved
Get the Compensation You Deserve
Our experts have helped thousands like you get cash benefits.
How It Works
1
Briefly tell us about your case
2
Provide your contact information
3
Choose attorneys to contact you