Learn How to Qualify For Disability Benefits After a Stroke

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If you or someone you love has experienced a stroke, there may be help available. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers monthly disability benefits for people who will be out of work for a year or more. If your stroke physically limits you from returning to work, you may be eligible for help.

Medical Benefits Eligibility Requirements After a Stroke

The SSA uses its own medical guideline of disability eligibility criteria, known colloquially as the Blue Book. Stokes would fall under Section 11.04 of the Blue Book—Vascular Insult to the Brain. Under this listing, there are three ways to qualify for benefits:

1. You are unable to effectively speak or communicate otherwise.

2. You have difficulty moving at least two limbs, which results in the inability to perform any one of the following activities:

  • Standing from a seated position
  • Balance while standing
  • Walk without aid of two crutches, a walker, or a wheelchair

3. You have marked* physical limitations, plus significant challenges in one of the following areas of mental functioning:

  • Understanding, remembering, or applying information
  • Interacting with others in the workplace
  • Concentrating and completing tasks
  • “Managing oneself,” which means controlling emotions in the workplace

*So what’s the difference between marked limitation and the criteria outlined in #2? Basically you’ll need to prove that your stroke caused some physical limitations that make it challenging for you to work, but they don’t have to be so severe that you’re unable to stand from a seated position or balance without assistance.

The entire Blue Book can be found online so you can review the listings for a stroke with your doctor to determine if you’ll qualify.

3 Month Waiting Period Before Applying

For every stroke listing in the Blue Book, the SSA requires that your symptoms have persisted for at least three months after a stroke. This is done because Social Security disability is only awarded on a long-term basis. Many people are able to make full recoveries months after a stroke, so you’ll need enough evidence to prove that you’re out of work for a year or more before applying. Regardless of your prognosis for restoring your physical function, do not apply for Social Security sooner than three months after your stroke. Your case could be thrown out due to a technicality.

How to Start Your Application

The easiest way to apply for Social Security disability is online on the SSA’s website. You can have a family member apply on your behalf if you’re unable to type for long periods of time. You can also apply in person if you’d prefer. To apply at your closest SSA office, call the SSA toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 to make an appointment.

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