What you have to prove
Meet listing essentially at diagnosis — carcinoma of the liver, gallbladder, or bile ducts.
Medical evidence SSA expects
Pathology (if obtainable), imaging, alpha-fetoprotein levels (HCC), and hepatology/oncology notes.
Common misconceptions
Hepatocellular carcinoma and gallbladder cancer have poor prognoses; these listings are typically met at diagnosis.
Didn't meet the listing? You can still qualify via a Medical-Vocational
Allowance — SSA's determination that your residual functional capacity, combined with
your age, education, and work history, leaves no jobs you can do. See our
appeals guide for what to do after an initial denial.