Living with a disability can be life-changing, not just physically or emotionally, but financially too. In North Carolina, many individuals with long-term health conditions seek support through Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). But navigating this process can be confusing—especially when trying to understand what qualifies as a disability in NC.
If you’re unsure whether your condition meets the requirements, you’re not alone. In this post, we’ll break down the basic qualifications, how the Social Security Administration (SSA) determines disability, and why working with an experienced disability lawyer can help improve your chances of approval.
Defining Disability in North Carolina
To determine North Carolina SSDI eligibility, you must first meet the SSA’s definition of disability. According to the SSA, you are considered disabled if:
- You cannot engage in substantial gainful activity (i.e., you can’t work enough to earn a certain income).
- Your condition is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death,
- Your medical condition prevents you from doing your past work or adjusting to other types of work.
In short, your disability must be long-term and severe enough to stop you from working full-time.
This definition is consistent across the U.S., including North Carolina, and applies to both SSDI and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
What Qualifies as a Disability in NC?
The SSA maintains a document called the Listing of Impairments (also known as the “Blue Book”), which outlines medical conditions that automatically qualify for benefits if certain criteria are met.
Some commonly recognized disabilities include:
- Musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., severe back injuries, arthritis)
- Neurological disorders (e.g., epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s)
- Mental health disorders (e.g., depression, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia)
- Cardiovascular conditions (e.g., heart failure, coronary artery disease)
- Respiratory illnesses (e.g., COPD, asthma)
- Cancer (depending on type, stage, and treatment)
- Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
Even if your condition isn’t listed, you may still qualify if it’s proven to be as severe as one on the list.
So, what qualifies as a disability in NC? It depends on your diagnosis, how it limits your ability to work, and how well your medical records support your case.
How North Carolina SSDI Eligibility Works
To qualify for SSDI in North Carolina, you must meet both medical and non-medical requirements.
Medical Qualifications
You must prove that your condition is severe enough to prevent you from working. This involves submitting medical evidence such as:
- Doctor’s records
- Test results (MRIs, blood tests, etc.)
- Hospital visits or surgeries
- Prescription history
- Psychiatric evaluations (for mental health claims)
Work History and Credits
SSDI isn’t a needs-based program—it’s based on your work history. You must have paid into the Social Security system through taxes and earned enough “work credits.” Most people need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled.
If you haven’t worked enough, you may still qualify for SSI, which is based on income and resources rather than work history.
The Application Process Can Be Tough
Here’s a hard truth: Most SSDI applications are denied the first time. According to the SSA’s 2023 Annual Statistical Report, 67% of initial applications are denied. That means only about one in three people gets approved on their first try.
Why? The SSA requires very specific documentation, and many applications are incomplete, lack sufficient evidence, or don’t clearly show how the condition affects daily functioning.
That’s where having a trusted disability lawyer comes in.
How a Disability Lawyer Can Help
Applying for disability benefits in North Carolina is complex. A skilled disability lawyer can help you at any stage of the process—whether you’re filing for the first time or appealing a denial.
Here’s how they help:
Build a Strong Application
Lawyers know exactly what the SSA is looking for. They can help collect the right evidence, write compelling statements, and make sure all documentation is submitted correctly and on time.
Handle Appeals
If you’ve been denied, don’t panic. A disability lawyer can file an appeal, request a hearing, and represent you before an administrative law judge.
Improve Your Odds of Disability in NC
Applicants who use a lawyer are significantly more likely to be approved—especially during the hearing stage. You’re not just a case file when you have an advocate in your corner.
No Upfront Costs
Most disability lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. There’s no upfront cost to get legal help.
Common Myths About Disability in NC
Myth 1: You have to be bedridden to qualify.
Not true. You just need to show that you can’t work full-time due to your condition.
Myth 2: Mental illnesses don’t count.
Also false. Conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD qualify if they prevent you from working.
Myth 3: Young people can’t get disability.
Younger workers can qualify if they meet the medical criteria and have enough work credits or qualify for SSI.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what qualifies as a disability in NC is the first step toward securing benefits that can help you stay afloat. Whether you’re dealing with a physical or mental condition, it’s important to understand that you have legal rights—and support is available.
Don’t face the system alone. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or overwhelmed by the process, an experienced disability lawyer can walk you through your options and help fight for the benefits you deserve.
Get Help from a North Carolina Disability Lawyer You Can Trust
At Disability Attorney Services, we specialize in helping North Carolinians just like you get the benefits they need. Whether you’re applying for the first time or appealing a denial, we’ll guide you every step of the way—with no upfront fees and a team that truly cares.
Start your free case evaluation today. Let us help you get the support you deserve. Contact us.
