Can You Get Social Security Disability Benefits For PTSD?

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Can You Get Social Security Disability Benefits For PTSD?

In short, the answer is Yes!

According to WHO, around 70% of humans experience a traumatic event during their lifetime, but only 5.6% will develop PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). 

Life can be really hard for those dealing with it, as the disorder impacts the ability to work or even engage in daily activities. And this is why even the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes PTSD as a qualifying condition for disability benefits. 

However, to qualify for SSDI or SSI, an applicant must prove that their symptoms are severe enough to prevent them from working or carrying out daily activities. This can be a complicated process and requires medical documentation and evidence of ongoing treatment. If you’re struggling with PTSD and wondering:

• Are you eligible for PTSD Social Security benefits? Or 
• Is hiring a disability benefit attorney necessary? 

We are here to answer all your questions about PTSD disability benefits. 

Keep reading.

What Is PTSD? 

PTSD is a mental health condition that arises after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. This condition is developed when the body’s natural response to trauma, “fight or flight,” gets stuck in overdrive. PTSD is not just feeling scared during that event (war, death of a loved one, or accidents), but feeling the same things (flashbacks, dreams) after the event in daily life. 

What Are The Symptoms Of Complex PTSD In Adults?

• Reliving the Event: Flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories.
• Avoidance: Staying clear of places, people, or thoughts tied to the trauma.
• Negative Mood Changes: Feeling guilt, fear, or believing the world is dangerous.
• Hyperarousal: Being jittery, irritable, or having trouble sleeping.

Complex PTSD can make it hard to maintain employment or take personal care, qualifying as a potential disability under Social Security rules.

Is PTSD A Condition For Social Security Disability Benefits?

Yes, you can qualify for SSDI or SSI if your PTSD prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA), defined as earning over $1,550 per month in 2025 (subject to annual adjustments). The SSA evaluates PTSD through two routes:

1. Meeting the Listing: Your condition must match the criteria in the SSA’s Blue Book.
2. Medical-Vocational Allowance: If you don’t meet the listing, your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) must show you cannot work due to your symptoms.

How Much Money Can You Get For PTSD Disability?

The amount depends on the program:

How To Prove PTSD For Social Security Disability?

Medical documentation: Detailed records from mental health professionals about your PTSD diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment history.

Functional impact: Evidence of how PTSD limits your ability to work, such as difficulties with concentration or social interactions.

Ongoing treatment: Regular appointments with mental health providers showing that your symptoms are persistent.

Objective evidence, such as hospital records, psychological evaluations, and statements from family or employers, can also strengthen your claim.

How Hard Is It To Get Social Security Disability For PTSD?

It is not easy to secure the benefits of PTSD Social Security. Initially, often 20 to 30% claims are approved. This happens due to the following reasons:

• The evidence to prove the disability was insufficient.
• There were gaps and inconsistencies in your treatment.
• Your application doesn’t meet the listing criteria.

How Can A Disability Benefit Attorney Help?

A social security appeal lawyer can help you with the SSI and SSDI application process and make sure that all the documents meet the eligibility criteria. So, it’s always best to hire one for a smoother application. 

What To Do If Your PTSD Disability Claim Is Denied?

If your claim is denied, dont give up! Reach out to a social security appeal lawyer. They can help you:

• Request Reconsideration: Ask for your case to be looked at again.
• Request a Hearing: Present your case to a judge.
• Appeals Council: Ask for another review if needed.
• Federal Court: As a last step, help you file a lawsuit.

Conclusion:

Walking through the social security application process is hard, but the good part is that you don’t have to do it alone. An experienced social security benefits lawyer can be your guide and help you present your side. They will also serve as your support and mentor for the next steps, should the benefits be denied.