Learn How to Qualify For Disability Benefits 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.