What you have to prove
Meet listing via: (1) ischemic episodes during a treadmill or exercise tolerance test, (2) three separate ischemic episodes within 12 months each requiring revascularization or not amenable to revascularization, or (3) coronary artery disease demonstrated on imaging with specific physical findings and marked limitation of physical activity.
Medical evidence SSA expects
Angiogram, stress test results, cardiac catheterization reports, and treatment records for stents, bypass, or angioplasty.
Common misconceptions
Having coronary artery disease isn't enough — SSA wants evidence of ongoing ischemia despite treatment. Successful stents or bypass that resolve symptoms often disqualify applicants at the listing level.
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.