Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. It often begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood. Many people with ADHD struggle to function optimally at school, work and in relationships. This leads some to wonder if they can qualify for disability benefits due to their ADHD symptoms.
What are the requirements for ADHD disability benefits?
To qualify for Social Security disability benefits for ADHD, you must meet the following criteria:
- Have a formal diagnosis of ADHD from a licensed mental health professional
- ADHD symptoms must significantly limit your ability to work and perform other major life activities
- ADHD symptoms must have lasted or be expected to last for at least 1 year or result in death
ADHD on its own does not automatically qualify you for disability benefits. Your symptoms must be severe enough to substantially interfere with your ability to function independently, productively and consistently in a workplace environment.
How is ADHD disability determined?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a 5-step evaluation process to determine if your ADHD meets the criteria for disability benefits:
- Are you working and earning above the substantial gainful activity (SGA) amount? If yes, you generally won’t qualify for benefits.
- Does your ADHD meet or equal a listing? SSA has listing 112.11 for ADHD. Your symptoms must match all criteria in the listing to be approved.
- How severe are your ADHD limitations? If your ADHD doesn’t meet a listing, the SSA will assess your residual functional capacity (RFC) to do work activities.
- Can you still do your past work? If your RFC shows you can’t perform any of your previous jobs, you may qualify for benefits.
- Can you adjust to other work? If you can’t do past work, the SSA will determine if you can adjust to any other type of work. If not, you will qualify for benefits.
So meeting the ADHD listing or proving your RFC prevents all work are the main paths to approval. The SSA will look at medical records, treatment history, function reports and testimony to assess disability.
What medical evidence is needed?
Strong medical evidence is crucial for a successful ADHD disability claim. This includes:
- ADHD diagnosis from a psychologist or psychiatrist
- Clinical notes and mental status exams showing ADHD symptoms
- Testing results like neuropsychological testing
- Information on ADHD medications tried and response
- Descriptions of how ADHD impairs your functioning
- Medical opinions from treating doctors about your work capacity
The more evidence you have from around the time you claim disability, the better. Symptoms and limitations must be well-documented.
Does ADHD automatically qualify you for disability benefits?
No, ADHD alone does not guarantee approval for Social Security disability benefits. Your ADHD symptoms must:
- Meet all criteria in the SSA’s ADHD listing OR
- Be disabling enough to prevent you from working and earning above the SGA limit
Many people with ADHD are able to work successfully, especially with appropriate treatment and accommodations. Mild to moderate ADHD symptoms often don’t meet the strict disability approval guidelines. But severe, uncontrolled ADHD can potentially qualify if fully supported by medical evidence.
Can children get disability benefits for ADHD?
Yes, children under age 18 may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability benefits if their ADHD severely limits functioning and meets disability criteria. The SSA uses slightly different medical criteria for children with ADHD and other mental disorders. Just having a diagnosis isn’t enough – symptoms must result in ‘marked’ limitations in two areas or ‘extreme’ limitation in one area.
Does ADHD qualify you for Social Security disability?
ADHD may qualify you for disability benefits under either the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or SSI programs, depending on your work history. SSDI pays benefits to insured workers unable to work. SSI provides income for disabled adults and kids with limited resources. If your ADHD prevents all work and meets all other program rules, you can get disability for ADHD under Social Security.
Conclusion
ADHD can potentially qualify you for Social Security disability benefits if it significantly disrupts your capacity to work and function. But approval is not guaranteed. Your ADHD symptoms must be completely disabling based on medical evidence and SSA criteria. Having a diagnosis doesn’t mean automatic entitlement to disability. Work closely with your doctors to properly document your ADHD limitations. With supportive medical files, you can show how ADHD impacts your ability to support yourself financially.