Applying for Disability Benefits With Multiple Health Conditions

 Posted on June 10, 2025 in Social Security Disability

It is common for people who apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits to have more than one medical issue that makes it difficult or impossible for them to work. When this is the case, Social Security must consider the combined impact of all medical conditions affecting you. To ensure you properly address your health status when applying for disability, seek the guidance of an experienced Collin County, TX disability benefits attorney. Even minor health concerns can impact your claim.

How Does Social Security Consider Multiple Conditions When Applying for Disability?

When you apply for disability and mention multiple health conditions on the application, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will consider how the combination of them affects your ability to earn a living. The first step in the evaluation process is to determine whether you are earning above the substantial gainful activity amount, which refers to money earned from work that requires significant mental or physical activity.

Once the SSA determines that you are not working above the allotted amount, they will:

• Review the medical evidence and evaluate how your health conditions affect you and your ability to manage daily activities.

• Determine the severity of your impairments and whether your condition aligns with the requirements of conditions listed in the Social Security Blue Book, which contains criteria to determine if a disability automatically qualifies a person for benefits.

• Establish whether you are capable of doing your last job or any other job.

Each stage is complex and requires careful consideration. If you have questions about how you fit into the process, a knowledgeable attorney can help.

Are Any Health Conditions Automatically Approved for Disability?

For your condition to qualify for disability automatically, it must be serious enough to be listed in the Social Security Blue Book. This "book" has listings for musculoskeletal disorders, abnormalities that impact the senses, respiratory disorders, cardiovascular disease, and many more. Just a few examples include complex fractures, loss of speech, asthma, and chronic heart failure. If your condition "meets a listing," the SSA will automatically approve the application without the final step of determining your residual functional capacity (RFC).

How Does Residual Functional Capacity Affect SSDI Benefits?

RFC refers to the work you can do, considering your physical and mental limitations. It typically addresses exertional, postural, manipulative, mental, and environmental restrictions. Questions related to RFC may include:

• How much weight can you lift?

• How long can you stand, sit, and walk?

• How well are you able to climb, bend, or crouch?

• Do you have any limitations in reaching, grasping, handling, and pressing?

• How well are you able to follow instructions, make decisions, and interact with others?

• Can you handle exposure to extreme temperatures or fumes?

When you have multiple conditions, the SSA will consider them all before assigning you an RFC. Your attorney will help you understand the evaluation in your case and how it impacts your ability to access SSDI benefits.

Contact a Dallas, TX SSDI Attorney for a Free Consultation

At The Law Offices of Coats & Todd, we have handled thousands of Social Security disability cases, helping clients get the support they need with over 60 years of collective experience. We understand that these cases can be complex, especially when you have multiple health conditions that hinder you from earning a living. Call 972-671-9922 to schedule a free consultation with experienced Plano, TX Social Security disability lawyers today.