Migraines are more than just headaches—they can be debilitating neurological events that make everyday functioning impossible. For individuals who suffer from frequent, severe migraines, holding a steady job can be out of reach. If your condition prevents consistent employment, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). PLBH can help you gather the medical evidence and documentation needed to prove your claim.
Understanding How the SSA Evaluates Migraine Claims
The Social Security Administration (SSA) doesn’t list migraines as a specific disability in its “Blue Book” of qualifying impairments. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t qualify. The SSA evaluates migraine cases based on how the condition affects your ability to work.
You may qualify if your migraines:
- Occur frequently and last for hours or days
- Require bed rest or a dark, quiet environment
- Cause severe nausea, vision changes, or dizziness
- Result in multiple missed workdays each month
- Prevent you from maintaining regular attendance or productivity
Your claim must show that your symptoms are medically documented, ongoing, and not adequately controlled by treatment.
Building a Strong Medical Record
SSDI claims for migraines are often denied because applicants lack detailed medical evidence. The SSA needs to see consistent, objective documentation from your healthcare providers.
Helpful records include:
- Neurologist evaluations and treatment history
- MRI or CT scan results ruling out other causes
- Prescription lists and medication side effects
- Headache journals noting frequency, duration, and severity
- Employer or HR documentation showing absences due to migraines
PLBH can help you work with your doctors to ensure that all relevant medical evidence is properly submitted.
Proving That Migraines Prevent You from Working
The SSA bases disability decisions on your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)—a measure of what you can and can’t do in a work environment. Migraines may interfere with your ability to concentrate, tolerate light or noise, or maintain attendance—all of which are key components of employment.
Evidence that supports your claim includes:
- Doctor statements describing how migraines limit your functionality
- Employer letters confirming missed work or performance impacts
- Records showing hospitalizations or ER visits due to migraine attacks
- Documentation of failed or limited treatment response
If your condition prevents you from performing any substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least 12 months, you may qualify for benefits.
Steps to File an SSDI Claim for Migraines
- Gather medical documentation from your treating physicians.
- Complete your SSDI application accurately, detailing how migraines affect your work ability.
- Submit supporting evidence including treatment notes, absence records, and witness statements.
- Consult PLBH. We can ensure your claim meets SSA standards and help you appeal if your application is denied.
What to Expect If Your Claim Is Denied
Most initial SSDI claims for migraine-related disability are denied due to lack of evidence. Don’t be discouraged—appeals often succeed with better documentation and representation.
PLBH can help you:
- Request reconsideration with updated medical evidence
- Represent you at hearings before an Administrative Law Judge
- Cross-examine vocational experts to demonstrate your work limitations
Getting the Support You Deserve
Living with chronic migraines is exhausting—navigating a disability claim shouldn’t be. If your migraines prevent you from maintaining employment, contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542. Our team will handle the complex paperwork and medical documentation so you can focus on your health while we fight for the benefits you deserve.